Family of Limerick Teenager Appeals to European Court for Justice

UPDATE: The family of 14-year-old Savannah Calvert, who tragically died after being struck by a car in Limerick, has taken urgent action by appealing to the European Court of Human Rights to re-investigate her death. This news comes just over two months after the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) decided not to pursue charges against the driver involved in the fatal incident on the night of August 16, 2023.

Savannah lost her life while crossing the road at Bank Place in Limerick city center, a devastating event that has left her family seeking justice and answers. Earlier this year, her eldest sister, Diane Calvert, was informed by the DPP that no charges would be filed, prompting the family to demand a thorough investigation by An Garda Siochana into the circumstances surrounding Savannah’s death.

In their quest for justice, the Calvert family has reached out to both the DPP and local police, urging them to revisit the case. They are now also pursuing legal action at the European level, with Mike Daly, a supporter and advocate for justice, providing crucial assistance. Having previously fought for a second inquest into his own father’s death, Daly emphasizes the importance of accountability, stating, “After reviewing the reports, I found significant contradictions that warrant further scrutiny.”

The family’s case is based on Article Two of the European Convention on Human Rights, which mandates a comprehensive investigation into deaths. “When there’s a death in Ireland, the State has a duty to investigate thoroughly and fairly,” Daly asserted. “We believe there has been a breach of this obligation.”

Diane expressed her ongoing anguish over her sister’s untimely death, stating, “I can’t properly grieve. My sister is in a graveyard, and it feels so unfair. She is a person, not just a number.” Her emotional plea highlights the human cost of this tragedy, resonating with many who seek justice for loved ones lost.

As the family prepares to present their case to the European Court in Strasbourg, they hope that it will prompt the State to acknowledge its failures and reopen the investigation into Savannah’s death. “If they are in breach of Article Two, what actions will they take to remedy this?” Daly questioned, emphasizing the urgency of their appeal.

The DPP has declined to comment on this developing story, while An Garda Siochana has not responded to requests for comment. As the situation unfolds, attention remains focused on the potential implications for accountability and the pursuit of justice in this heartbreaking case.

Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops, and the Calvert family’s fight for justice continues.