Troy Dargan dead – Rugby League star dies age 26 in horror Christmas Eve motorcycle crash on holiday in Cook Islands

A YOUNG rugby player has died in a horrific accident on Christmas Eve.

Troy Dargan, 26, was killed in a motorcycle crash while on holiday with his family.

Troy Dargan, 26, died on Christmas Eve

The Australian sportsman’s death was announced on Christmas Day “with a heavy heart”.

Dargan, who was known as “TJ”, had just signed a two-year contract to play for the Canberra Raiders in the Australian Rugby League NRL.

His management firm confirmed the tragic news on Christmas Day.

They wrote on social media: “On behalf of the Dargan family, it is with a heavy heart that we share the news of TJ’s tragic passing overnight.

“He and his family were holidaying in the Cook Island (sic) where TJ was involved in a motorcycle accident.

“TJ will be greatly missed and our thoughts and prayers are with his family.”

Dargan had played two NRL games in 2020 before joining the Canberra team.

His debut game came after Covid restrictions eased in May 2020.

He was on holiday in the Cook Islands when he died, which he had represented twice at an international level.

The Parramatta Eels, a club he was once a member of, said they were “deeply saddened” to learn of Dargan’s death.

“Troy was an Eels junior who had a great connection to many of our junior players and staff,” they said on social media.

And Queensland club Norths Devils RLFC said they were “devastated”.

“He was a much-loved member of the Norths family during his time with our club,” they added.

“Our condolences to his family and many friends. Rest In Peace.”