Rian Sherida dies in fatal Roscommon truck crash

Rian Sherida dies in fatal Roscommon truck crash

Fatal Roscommon truck crash death of Rian Sheridan

Rian Sheridan, a 24-year-old man from Cluainluáin in Renvyle, County Galway, lost his life in a tragic collision with a lorry in Roscommon in March 2024. His grieving mother has now issued a heartfelt plea to commercial vehicle operators to place safety above deadlines.

During a court hearing, it was revealed that the lorry driver, Shaun Curran from Middle Dore, Bunbeg, County Donegal, had driven 814 kilometers on the day of the crash, failed to take proper rest breaks, committed four speeding violations, and was using a driver card registered to someone else at the time of the incident.

The crash took place on the main Athlone to Roscommon Road at Newtown, where a blowout from a severely worn and unsafe front tyre led to the fatal impact. CCTV footage presented in court showed Curran had checked the tyre twice earlier that day but continued driving regardless.

In deeply emotional victim impact statements, Rian’s family remembered him as a kind-hearted, joyful young man who loved music, football, and life. His partner, Aine Griffin, described him as her everything and mourned the life they had planned together, filled with marriage and children.

Rian’s father, Finian Sheridan, condemned the crash as the result of an irresponsible choice that should never have been made. He expressed his belief that the tragedy could easily have been prevented.

Maria Sheridan, Rian’s mother, said she now lives with post-traumatic stress and often visualizes her son’s final terrifying moments. She told the court that losing a child defies the natural order and that no punishment would ever be sufficient for the consequences of Curran’s decisions.

The court has adjourned sentencing until June 24th, with Curran currently remanded in custody.