Oscar-winning songwriter Glen Hansard killed in crash

Glen Hansard, the acclaimed Irish musician known for his soulful voice and heartfelt songwriting, has died in a motorcycle accident in Dublin. He was 56.

Hansard, the charismatic frontman of the beloved Irish rock band The Frames, achieved international recognition as one half of the duo The Swell Season. He also starred in the cult classic film "The Commitments."

His most significant accolade came in 2007 when he won an Academy Award for Best Original Song for "Falling Slowly," which he co-wrote with Markéta Irglová for the low-budget film "Once." The song became a global hit, capturing the raw emotion and musical chemistry that defined the film.

Born in Dublin in 1970, Hansard began his musical journey busking on the city's streets before his talent led him to acting and a prolific music career. He released several solo albums and was part of The Swell Season, whose 2016 album "Didn't He Ramble" earned a Grammy nomination.

Police are appealing for witnesses to the single-vehicle crash, which occurred in Lucan, west of Dublin, shortly before 4:30 a.m. local time. Hansard was also a father to a three-year-old son.