Two best friends, Kiea McCann, 17, and Dlava Mohammed, 16, tragically lost their lives on July 31, 2023, in Clones, County Monaghan, Ireland, just hours before their school prom. The two girls were traveling with three others in a car driven by a family friend when the fatal crash occurred. Just before the accident, the girls had taken joyful photos—Kiea in a striking red gown and Dlava in a soft blue dress—capturing their excitement for the night ahead.

Kiea’s father, Frankie McCann, remembered the happiness in their home before the celebration, sharing how they had prepared food, champagne, and balloons for what was meant to be a joyful evening. That happiness was shattered when news of the crash arrived. Reports revealed the car was driven by 61-year-old Anthony McGinn, who was speeding at nearly twice the 50 mph limit despite the teenagers’ repeated requests to slow down. Oisin Clerkin, Kiea’s prom date and a survivor of the crash, recounted the terrifying speed and how Kiea looked scared during the ride. He said goodbye to her before waking up later in the hospital.

McGinn pleaded guilty to dangerous driving causing death and serious injury, including to Dlava’s sister, Avin Mohammed, and was sentenced to a 15-year driving ban. The court was told that Kiea’s father arrived at the crash scene and performed CPR desperately, but both girls had already died. Their mother, Teresa, tearfully recalled how the girls were found side by side, holding hands. The loss of Kiea and Dlava—inseparable best friends—has deeply affected their families and community, who continue to honor their memory with love and sorrow.