Oscar-winning songwriter Glen Hansard killed in crash
Irish musician Glen Hansard has died following a motorbike crash in Dublin. The 56-year-old songwriter, best known as the frontman of The Frames and for his work in The Commitments, was involved in a single-vehicle accident on Lower Road in Lucan early Wednesday morning.
Hansard gained global recognition in 2007 when he won an Academy Award for Best Original Song. He wrote the track Falling Slowly for the film Once. Throughout his career, he performed as part of the rock duo The Swell Season and maintained a steady output of solo albums, including his 2016 Grammy-nominated work Didn't He Ramble.
Police arrived at the scene shortly before 04:30 local time. Authorities are currently appealing to the public for any witnesses who may have information regarding the collision.
His management firm, ATC Management, confirmed the news in a formal statement. They stated that his family is devastated by the loss and has requested privacy. The management team also expressed gratitude toward the emergency responders who arrived at the scene.
Hansard leaves behind a three-year-old son. He began his career busking on the streets of Dublin before building a decades-long presence in the Irish and international music scene.