Daniel O’Donnell Reflects on Creeslough Tragedy: “I Had Just Been There—It Hits Different When It’s That Close”
Daniel O’Donnell has opened up about the devastating explosion in Creeslough, Co Donegal, expressing his deep sorrow over the tragedy that claimed ten lives—and revealing that he had visited the very petrol station at the heart of the disaster just weeks before.
The beloved country singer was flying home from the United States when the heartbreaking news began to filter through. “I was on the plane when I heard,” he said, visibly moved. “And I couldn’t believe it… I had just been there. It’s a place I know. People I know.”
The explosion, which rocked the small Donegal village, stunned the nation and sent waves of grief through every corner of the country—but for Daniel, it was deeply personal.
“When something like this happens in your own community, it’s not just a headline. It’s not just a news item. It’s faces. It’s names. It’s heartbreak you can touch.”
He described the sense of helplessness he felt from afar, and the overwhelming compassion he has witnessed since—from emergency responders to neighbours offering quiet acts of kindness.
“It’s hard to find the words,” he said. “But I know the people of Donegal. I know their hearts. And they’ll hold each other through this.”
Daniel has long been known for his connection to community and home, often using his platform to raise awareness and show solidarity. In this moment, his message was simple, but powerful: “Let them know they’re not alone.”