Britain's Got Talent triple tragedy as dad and two kids die in horrific circumstances

A family has been left shattered by a third heartbreaking tragedy following the death of 18-year-old Oran McConville, a former contestant, in a car crash last month. Oran, from County Down, Northern Ireland, was killed just weeks after his father, Paddy, passed away on February 21. The devastating loss comes 16 years after Oran's 11-year-old sister, Rachael, was also tragically killed in a separate road accident. Oran first captured hearts in 2017 when he appeared on Britain's Got Talent with his school choir from St Patrick's Primary School.

The group reached the semi-finals with a moving rendition of Somewhere Only We Know by Keane. After their performance, told them, "You are having a good time, and that is the most important thing. That was a great audition." At Oran's Requiem Mass in Drumgath, parish priest Fr Charles Byrne said: "Oran's tragic death early on Saturday morning has brought devastating shock and grief to his family, to his friends, to our local community here and the wider community around it."

He continued: "As we all know, just six weeks ago we were here for Oran's father Paddy and 16 years ago you had the death of young Rachael. At this time we are all lost for words.

"Words are woefully inadequate to express the pain and the sorrow in our hearts that we have for you."

Fr Byrne recalled Oran's time on BGT with fondness: "This was a very enjoyable time for Oran and for his friends at the school. He was a natural performer and years later was able to look back on those times with fun and laughter."

He added: "His love of music continued to grow. He learnt to play the guitar, loved going to concerts."

Describing him as the "baby of the family... who got away with more mischief than most", Fr Byrne said: "With a smile like his, who could be cross for long."

He also praised Oran's close bond with his older brother Shea, calling him a "hero" and noting their "unbreakable bond."

Oran worked part-time at Milestone petrol station, where his mother is also employed. Colleagues described him as "full of talent, kindness, and an infectious positivity."

His GAA club, Drumgath, released an emotional tribute, stating: "Órán was so much more than a young man - he was a bright light in our community.

"Kind, gentle, full of humour, and always up for a chat, Órán had that rare ability to make everyone feel at ease in his company."

They added: "Órán's sudden death has left our entire club and wider community in deep shock and sorrow. A young man full of promise, kindness, and spirit, Órán had so much life ahead of him.

"He was a cherished friend to many, a teammate, and a beloved son and brother."

Britain's Got Talent airs on ITV and ITVX.