Gardaí say dog was killed after it was hit by a car and not a firework

Louise Walsh

Gardaí say that a dog that died on Halloween night was hit by a car and not killed by a firework, as widely reported.

There was widespread outrage when it was thought that the dog, found in Dunboyne, Co Meath, died as a result of having a firework inserted in its mouth.

However, gardaí now say that after being examined by a vet, the dog died after being hit by a car and that there were no injuries inflicted by a firework

Gardaí are appealing to all social media users and media to be mindful of sharing unverified content.

In a statement gardai say: "Gardaí received a report of a deceased dog in a park area in Dunboyne, Co Meath, which was discovered sometime between 8:30pm and 9:00pm on 31st October 2025.

"Following enquiries with the dog’s owner, it has been established that the dog was brought by its owner to a veterinarian in Co. Meath on the evening of the 31st October, where the dog was examined and determined to have died as a result of injuries consistent with being struck by a vehicle.

"The veterinarian found no burns or injuries that could have been caused by a firework.

"It would appear that the dog may have become scared as a result of the noise of fireworks, escaped from their home and subsequently, likely struck by a vehicle.

"An Garda Síochána is very conscious of the volume of online commentary in relation to this incident, which is misinformed.

"The online commentary on this incident is very upsetting to the owners of the dog, who have lost a very much loved family pet in upsetting circumstances.

"An Garda Síochána appeals to all members of the public and the media to independently verify any information published on social media and/or messaging apps.