87‑year‑old driver’s mistake kills Mary Fehilly, injures John Collins in Charleville

On Saturday 2 November 2024 an 87‑year‑old motorist mistakenly pressed the accelerator instead of the brake while parking on Main Street, Charleville, resulting in the death of Mary Fehilly, 72, and serious injury to John Collins, 66.

Accident and legal outcome

Garda Christopher Gleeson reported that the incident occurred just before 2 pm as the driver, Agnes Foley of Farran, entered a parking space amid heavy traffic. The vehicle mounted the kerb and pinned Fehilly and Collins against a wall, killing Fehilly and causing Collins a fractured femur and other life‑changing injuries.

Foley, who had driven for 60 years without incident, pleaded guilty to driving without due care and attention. She has not driven since and wrote letters of apology to both families, cooperating fully with the investigation.

Family members described the profound impact of the loss. Siobhán Fehilly, the deceased’s daughter, spoke of her mother as a “beautiful, caring, vibrant” figure whose death left a “gaping hole” in the family. Granddaughter Aisling Biggane recalled the woman’s involvement in the lives of her grandchildren.

John Collins, who was seriously injured, noted that he and his wife had been planning their retirement before the accident.

The families also thanked emergency doctor Shane O’Donovan, who happened to be passing through town and provided assistance at the scene.

Source: Irish Examiner. Photo: Kevin Miller / Pexels.