Humphreys Pledges to Meet Mother of Young Hit-and-Run Victim Shane O’Farrell After Exhausting All Efforts

Heather Humphreys, a notable figure in the ongoing presidential campaign, has pledged to engage with Lucia O’Farrell, the mother of Shane O’Farrell, a young man tragically killed in a hit-and-run incident. The promise comes after criticism regarding Humphreys’ support for justice related to O’Farrell’s death.

Background on Shane O’Farrell’s Case

Shane O’Farrell was a 23-year-old law graduate who lost his life in a hit-and-run in Carrickmacross, Co Monaghan, on August 2, 2011. He was cycling home when he was struck by a vehicle driven by Zigimantas Gridziuska. The driver, a Lithuanian national, failed to stop and had a history of criminal convictions.

At the time of the tragic accident, Gridziuska was supposed to be in jail for breaching bail conditions. A subsequent trial in February 2013 found him acquitted of dangerous driving causing O’Farrell’s death. Due to legal limitations, a lesser charge could not be pursued. Reports indicate he has since returned to Lithuania.

Calls for Justice and Public Inquiry

The O’Farrell family has been vocal in demanding a public inquiry into the circumstances surrounding Shane’s death and the previous criminal record of Gridziuska. Despite these calls, Humphreys faced scrutiny for not supporting the inquiry vote.

Humphreys’ Responses

• Engagement with Lucia O’Farrell: Humphreys expressed regret for not having spoken to Lucia during the campaign and committed to meeting her in the future.
• Defending Actions: Humphreys stated she had done everything possible to assist the O’Farrell family, recounting a heartfelt conversation with Lucia shortly after Shane’s death.
• Apologies for Lack of Attendance: Regarding her absence at a vigil for Shane, she admitted she was unsure of her whereabouts at that time.
• Clarification on Inquiry Vote: Humphreys explained that she was abroad on a trade mission during the vote for the public inquiry.

As the presidential race unfolds, Heather Humphreys’s interactions with the O’Farrell family will be closely monitored. The tragic loss of Shane O’Farrell continues to resonate, influencing discussions about accountability and justice.