Canberra Raiders and former South Sydney NRL player Troy Dargan has tragically died in a motorcycle accident at the age of just 26.

His player agency, Aria, announced the news on their Facebook page early on Christmas morning, confirming that he had passed away while on Christmas break in the Cook Islands.

He had been signed to the Raiders’ supplementary list for 2024 having departed the Manly Sea Eagles system at the end of the 2023 season.

Dargan was of Cook Islander and Indigenous descent and represented the Kukis in two Test matches in 2019, as well as gaining two first grade appearances for Souths in 2020 and over 70 appearances in both the NSW Cup and Queensland Cup, split across Blacktown Workers, Norths Devils, Wentworthville Magpies and South Sydney.

“On behalf of the Dargan family, it is with a heavy heart that we share the news of TJ’s tragic passing overnight,” read the statement.

“He and his family were holidaying in the Cook Islands where TJ was involved in a motorcycle accident. TJ was not only an Aria Sports Group client but a long time friend and great mate.

“He is currently a Canberra Raider and formerly a member of Manly Sea Eagles, Souths Rabbitohs, Brisbane Broncos and Parramatta Eels.

“TJ is a beloved son to Troy and Wendy, loving brother to Tamalee and Korokai, and friend to many many others.

“The family have asked for privacy at this very devastating time. TJ will be greatly missed and our thoughts and prayers are with his family.”