DUBLIN, IRELAND (THECOUNT) — Glen Hansard, the Oscar-winning Irish singer-songwriter, performed an intimate pub set just hours before he was killed in a motorcycle crash early Wednesday morning in Dublin, according to newly surfaced video and local reports. He was 56.
Dublin, Ireland’s capital city, was both Hansard’s lifelong home and the backdrop for much of his celebrated music career. Authorities continue investigating the fatal crash, which occurred in the Strawberry Beds area near Lucan.
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According to Irish media, Gardaí were alerted to the crash at approximately 4:30 a.m. Wednesday after a passerby discovered Hansard and called emergency services. Despite rescue efforts, the acclaimed musician was pronounced dead at the scene.
Officials have not released a cause of the crash, and investigators have not indicated that foul play is suspected. Reports state there was no significant damage to Hansard’s motorcycle, and the circumstances surrounding the collision remain under investigation.
A video circulating on social media reportedly shows Hansard performing at The Wren’s Nest pub in Chapelizod on Tuesday night, only hours before the fatal crash. In the footage, Hansard is seen playing guitar alongside fellow musicians while patrons quietly listened. A clock visible in the background appears to show approximately 11:15 p.m.
A video has emerged showing musician Glen Hansard performing just hours before his untimely death, with the pub he was at saying there was no lock-in.
Glen died in a motorcycle crash in the early hours of Wednesday morning at the Strawberry Beds in Lucan, Dublin, and is said to… pic.twitter.com/2KyxXBT1Ce
— THECOUNT.com ™ © (@THECOUNTnews) July 30, 2026
Following speculation online, The Wren’s Nest issued a statement to RTÉ News stating there was no after-hours gathering at the pub and that Hansard left after normal closing time.
The pub also paid tribute to the musician, describing him as a longtime guest whose visits were always welcomed.
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Glen Hansard,” the statement read. “It was always a privilege to welcome Glen to The Wren’s Nest over the years. He will be remembered for his incredible talent, generosity and the joy he brought to so many.”
Hansard rose to international prominence through the 2007 film “Once,” earning an Academy Award alongside Markéta Irglová for the song “Falling Slowly.” He also fronted the Irish rock band The Frames and later co-founded The Swell Season.
Tributes poured in following confirmation of his death, including messages from Bruce Springsteen, Bono, Hozier, Dermot Kennedy and Liam Ó Maonlaí, who praised Hansard’s lasting influence on Irish music and his generosity toward fellow artists.
Authorities have not announced when additional findings from the investigation into the fatal crash will be released.
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