The incredibly sad news of rugby league player Troy Dargan’s death broke over the festive period, but now the police have release a statement indicating what may have caused the 26-year-old’s passing.
Dargan had just signed a development deal with NRL side Canberra Raiders and was set for a huge 2024, hoping to build on his two previous NRL appearances.
Off the back of representing his native Cook Islands in 2019 Dargan had played a couple of games for South Sydney Rabbitohs in the 2020 NRL season, but this deal with Canberra could have seen him add to those two games.
The 26-year-old passed away having been involved in a motorcycle crash and Cook Islands Police have now confirmed the news that speed and alcohol were also factors in the crash, adding that he wasn’t wearing a helmet although that isn’t compulsory on the island.
Cooks Islands Police Service released a statement surrounding the sad passing of Dargan, reading: “The 26 year-old was found unresponsive on the road where he had crashed into fencing by the Aitutaki Airport.
“Unfortunately, Police are classifying the fatality as an alcohol and speed-related incident. The deceased was not wearing a helmet and sustained a severe head trauma and other injuries.”
A GoFundMe page has already received huge support as the rugby league family unites to try and help the family bring Troy’s body home, the page easily surpassing it’s $25,000 target.
Dargan’s new side Canberra had also released a statement: “The Canberra Raiders are deeply saddened by the passing of squad member Troy Dargan, who tragically lost his life in an accident early yesterday morning.
“Troy had only been in Canberra since the commencement of the pre-season, but had already established a number of friendships within the current playing group.”
Meanwhile the club’s CEO Don Furner had spoke on the sad news with an offering of help and assistance to Troy’s family.
“This is a very sad time for Troy’s family and friends, and we will be respecting their privacy and offering support where we can, to help them at this tough time,” Mr Furner said. “Troy was just 26 years old, and we were looking forward to him having the opportunity to further his NRL Career with our club.
“The news is also very sad for Troy’s current teammates, and we will be offering support to any of them who need it at this time.”
The thoughts of everyone at Serious About Rugby League are with his family at this difficult time.
