GLEN HANSARD, the Oscar-winning Irish singer-songwriter, has passed away at the age of 56 following a road traffic collision.
The star died following a single-vehicle collision in Lucan in the early hours of this morning.
Paying tribute, Dublin band Aslan described Hansard as 'a remarkable artist whose music touched so many lives'.
Gardaí said they responded to a collision involving a motorcycle on the R109 Lower Road, Strawberry Beds, between Tinkers Hill (R121) and Rugged Lane at around 4.30am today.
"The motorcyclist, a man in his 50s, was treated at the scene but was pronounced deceased a short time later," added a garda statement.
Hansard's management company, ATC, later confirmed his passing.
"With broken hearts we announce the passing of Glen Hansard who passed away, in the early hours of this morning, following a road traffic accident in Dublin," read a statement.
"Glen's family is deeply shocked and heartbroken by this tragic loss and respectfully requests privacy at this extremely difficult time.
"The family is grateful for the support they have received and wishes to thank the emergency services who attended the scene.
"As this matter remains the subject of an active garda investigation, no further comment will be made at this time."
Career
Hansard began his professional music career with The Frames in 1990 and also released five albums as a solo artist.
In 2006, he linked up with Markéta Irglová to form folk-rock duo The Swell Season.
The pair also starred together in the Irish romantic film, Once, for which they wrote they soundtrack.
One of the songs from the film, Falling Slowly, saw Hansard and Irglová win the 2008 Oscar for Best Original Song.
While primarily a musician, Hansard made a handful of other screen appearances, his most memorable being as Outspan Foster in the 1991 film, The Commitments.
Hansard was also known for supporting charities and regularly took part in the Dublin Simon Community's Christmas Eve busking session to support the city's homeless.
'Absolutely devastated'
In their statement, Aslan expressed their shock at Hansard's passing.
"We are absolutely devastated to hear of the tragic passing of the incredibly talented Glen Hansard," they said.
"We're here in the rehearsal studio, and the news has completely floored us.
"Glen was a remarkable artist whose music touched so many lives, and his loss will be felt far and wide.
"Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with his family, friends, and all who loved him during this heartbreaking time. Rest in peace, Glen."
Taoiseach Micheál Martin commented: "Deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Glen Hansard.
"A talented musician and actor who made a significant contribution to Ireland's cultural landscape over many years.
"My sincere sympathies to his family, friends, and fans. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam."
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