Courts / Louth / Report

Driver who caused death of "trailblazing" activist (91) has "no memory" of impact

Summary

In a Dublin Circuit Criminal Court hearing, Tomas Kennedy, 43, received a fully suspended one‑year prison sentence for careless driving that caused the death of 91‑year‑old Beatrice Ryan on 25 March 2017. Kennedy was not speeding or intoxicated; his mobile phone and blood tests showed no distraction or alcohol. Witnesses heard a thud and saw Ryan on the bonnet before the car stopped, but did not see the impact. Ryan suffered an unrecoverable brain injury, remained unconscious, and died three days later. Kennedy, who has no prior convictions, pleaded guilty and expressed remorse. The judge noted his attempts to recover memory failed and that he had been admitted to a psychiatric hospital three months after the collision. The sentence was suspended, with a maximum penalty of two years. The court heard a victim impact statement from Ryan's nephew, Eugene Downes, describing her legacy as a teacher and activist. The judge extended condolences to the family.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Driver who caused death of "trailblazing" activist (91) has "no memory" of impact. Charges or matters: careless driving causing the death of Ms Ryan. Procedural stage: trial

When:

• March 25, 2017 Hearing Or Sentence
• 2019-07-31 Publication

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Trial

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Read the original CNI report