Man Kills 70-Year-Old Pensioner After Driving Drunk, Court Hears

UPDATE: A Buncrana man was sentenced today after causing the tragic death of a beloved pensioner while driving more than three times over the legal drink-drive limit. Shaun Duffy, aged 51, pleaded guilty to dangerous driving causing the death of Mervyn McClure, 70, during a court hearing at Letterkenny Circuit Court.

The horrific incident occurred on July 5, 2022, along the N13 road at Sharon Glebe, Newtowncunningham, when Duffy’s vehicle crossed the center line, colliding with Mr. McClure’s van. Eyewitness accounts revealed that Duffy was disoriented and had a strong smell of alcohol on his breath. His blood alcohol concentration was recorded at 176 milligrammes of alcohol per 100ml of blood, significantly above the legal limit of 50mg/100ml.

During the court proceedings, details of Mr. McClure’s final moments were recounted, illustrating the profound impact of this tragedy. Duffy, who has a disturbing history with six previous drink-driving convictions, sat silently as the emotional statements from Mr. McClure’s family were shared. His sister, Linda McBride, read a heartfelt victim impact statement, expressing the irreversible pain and loss her family has suffered due to Duffy’s reckless actions.

“None of us got to say goodbye,” Ms. McBride stated, choking back tears. “All we have are photos and frames while Mr. Duffy continues with his life.” She added that her brother, a dedicated farmer from Lurgy, was well-respected in his community and was returning home from helping a neighbor when his life was tragically cut short.

The court heard that Duffy had consumed several pints before driving, which he vaguely recalled, stating, “I don’t know if it was the bang that messed up my head or what.” His defense attorney, Mr. Simon Gillespie, noted Duffy’s remorse and emphasized that his client did not intend to cause harm, highlighting the shared grief of losing loved ones.

The emotional testimonies from the McClure family painted a picture of a cherished individual taken too soon. Ms. McBride described her brother as having a “natural way of finding out about people’s lives,” reflecting on his deep connections in the community.

As the court proceedings continue, Judge John Aylmer is expected to deliver a sentencing decision on Friday. The case has reignited discussions on the severe consequences of drink-driving, underscoring the urgent need for stricter enforcement and awareness.

Residents and families are left grappling with the aftermath of this tragedy, hoping that sharing their story serves as a poignant reminder of the devastating impact of reckless driving. The McClure family seeks justice for Mervyn, wishing to prevent similar heartbreak for others.

As this story develops, it serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of road safety and the responsibilities that come with driving. Families must never have to endure such a profound loss due to the reckless actions of others.