TRAGIC LOSS — (FICTIONAL)

Few minutes ago veteran forward Aaron Kearney, 31, confirmed dead in devastating car crash

A stunned sporting community was left reeling late Sunday after news broke that Aaron Kearney, a respected prop and lock who spent a decade playing at the top level of the national rugby competition, died in a single-vehicle crash while travelling to a regional training session.

Police confirmed the collision occurred on the Murran Highway at about 5:30 p.m. local time. Emergency services pronounced Kearney, 31, deceased at the scene. No other vehicles were involved; investigations are ongoing and authorities said they would release more details following forensic examinations.

Kearney — known to teammates and fans as “AK” — rose through the junior ranks in his home state before debuting in the national league at 20. He earned a reputation as a tireless defender and a calming presence in the forward pack, combining physicality with a deceptively steady ball-handling ability. Across his career he made more than 180 first-grade appearances and was widely respected for his leadership off the field.

“Words can’t capture the shock and sorrow we feel tonight,” the club’s chairman said in a short statement. “Aaron was a consummate professional, a mentor to younger players and a devoted family man. Our thoughts are with his wife, two children and his entire family.”

Tributes poured in on social channels within minutes as former teammates remembered Kearney’s humour in the dressing room, his work with youth programs, and his habit of arriving early to help prepare younger players for training.

“Aaron was the first to put his arm around a rookie and the last to leave the field,” one former captain said. “He made everyone better — as a player and as a human.”

The club has postponed its scheduled match this week as counselling services are made available to players and staff. A public memorial is expected to be announced once the family’s wishes are known.

Road safety advocates seized on the tragedy to urge caution for motorists and to call for renewed focus on fatigue management and rural road upgrades. “Any loss of life on our roads is devastating,” a representative said. “We offer our condolences to the family and encourage all drivers to take every precaution.”

Friends described Kearney as fiercely private away from the spotlight — a devoted father who loved fishing, coaching grassroots teams and volunteering at local schools. He will be remembered for his dedication, resilience and the quiet way he lifted those around him.