A young Northern Irish talent who once graced the stage of Britain’s Got Talent has tragically died in a car crash at the age of 18. Oran McConville, who rose to national recognition in 2017 as part of a school choir, passed away in the early hours of Saturday morning.
His sudden death comes just weeks after the passing of his father, Paddy McConville, and follows an earlier family tragedy—the death of his younger sister Rachael, who was just 11 years old when she was struck by a vehicle 16 years ago. The McConville family, from County Down, has been left shattered by this latest blow.
Oran found fame as a pupil at St Patrick’s Primary School when the school choir reached the semi-finals of Britain’s Got Talent. Their emotional rendition of Somewhere Only We Know by Keane impressed both the judges and viewers alike. Judge Simon Cowell remarked at the time: “That was a great audition.”
Speaking to the local community, parish priest Fr. Charles Byrne shared his deep sorrow: “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.
“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 reflected on Oran’s joyful spirit and enduring love for music: “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. His love of music continued to grow. He leant to play the guitar, loved going to concerts.”
He fondly added: “With a smile like his, who could be cross for long.”
Oran’s positive energy extended beyond music. He worked at the Milestone petrol station, where colleagues described him as “full of talent, kindness, and an infectious positivity.”
The Drumgath GAA Club, where Oran was an active player, issued a heartfelt tribute: “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.
“He had time for people, young and old, and brought joy to those lucky enough to have known him. Whether it was on the football pitch or in the heart of the community, Órán carried himself with warmth, respect, and quiet charm.”
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.”
The untimely passing of Oran McConville has not only robbed his family of a beloved son and brother but has left a deep void in the hearts of all who knew him. His legacy as a talented performer and compassionate young man will be remembered for years to come.
