An elderly man tragically lost his life in a fatal road accident in Co Laois on Sunday night. The pedestrian, aged in his 70s, was struck by a car on the N80 at Crannagh, Stradbally, Co Laois, just before 11pm. The driver of the vehicle, a woman in her 30s, thankfully escaped unharmed.
The Road Closure and Investigation
Following the collision, the road was closed to allow forensic collision investigators to examine the scene. The man was pronounced dead shortly after the incident and was transported to Midland Regional Hospital in Portlaoise. A postmortem examination will be conducted in the near future, as confirmed by a Garda spokesperson.
Appeal for Witnesses and Statistics
Gardaí are now seeking information from any witnesses who may have seen the tragic collision. They are urging anyone with details to reach out to Portlaoise Garda station, the Garda confidential line, or any other Garda station.
According to the latest data from the Garda, a total of 24 individuals have lost their lives in road accidents in Ireland so far in 2025. Among these fatalities, six have been pedestrians. These figures show a decrease compared to the same period in 2024 when 36 road-related deaths were reported.
Expert Insights on Road Safety
In light of this recent incident and the overall trend in road fatalities, experts emphasize the importance of road safety measures. David Murphy, a road safety advocate, highlights the need for increased awareness and caution among all road users. “Every life lost on the road is a tragedy that could have been prevented. We must all take responsibility for our actions behind the wheel and as pedestrians to ensure the safety of everyone on the road,” says Murphy.
Drivers are reminded to adhere to speed limits, avoid distractions, and remain vigilant for pedestrians, especially during the night. Pedestrians are also urged to use designated crossings, wear reflective clothing in low visibility conditions, and stay alert while walking near roadways.
By fostering a culture of safety and mutual respect on the roads, we can work together to prevent further tragedies and create a safer environment for all. Let’s remember to prioritize safety and caution in every journey we take, whether on foot or behind the wheel.
