Inquest unable to determine why vehicle failed to stop in fatal crash

An inquiry into the fatal road accident involving three family members from County Londonderry revealed that the deceased were remembered as individuals who were “full of life”, “full of fun”, and deeply missed. The coroner determined that the vehicle carrying the three individuals failed to halt at a crossroads situated near Portglenone in July 2020. Paul and Verena Creelman, a married couple from Kilrea, perished in the incident along with Verena Creelman’s brother, Phil Hegarty. Their car, moving at speeds between 30 and 38mph, proceeded through a junction on Lisnahunshin Road without stopping, resulting in a collision with a second vehicle. The coroner concluded that the driver of the other vehicle bore no responsibility for causing or contributing to the crash. Furthermore, the coroner stated that the other driver would have had sight of the Creelman vehicle for less than a single second prior to the impact. During the inquest’s findings hearing held on Friday, the coroner reiterated statements made by Mikaela Creelman, the daughter of Paul and Verena Creelman. Mikaela had characterized her parents as “full of life” and “full of fun,” noting their loving relationship over 34 years of marriage. The daughter of the deceased also conveyed that the three victims shared a close and friendly bond, and mentioned that Mr. Hegarty is “missed by many.” Paul Creelman, aged 65, was operating the vehicle at the time of the collision. His daughter had informed the inquest that despite his unfamiliarity with the local roads, he “was a cautious driver,” and she “couldn’t understand why he didn’t stop.” This specific point remained unclarified by the coroner, who stated that, based on all presented evidence and witness testimonies, she was unable to determine the reason for his failure to brake. The coroner highlighted the presence of multiple warning signs preceding the junction, including five raised red-coloured strips, a “stop 100 yds” sign, and a stop sign featuring a yellow-coloured back board positioned approximately 10 yards from the intersection. The installation of rumble strip signage had occurred following a previous collision at the location two years prior. The coroner affirmed, “All signage was in a good position to be seen.” She further stated, “I find he was travelling towards crossroads at approximately 38mph.” As Mr. Creelman approached the intersection, the coroner informed the court that “he was coasting between 30-38mph” and “he did not brake and continued through the junction without stopping.” The coroner also stated, “The oncoming car was in [its] own lane, within speed limit, and could not have seen the vehicle until one second before impact.” The driver and his two passengers suffered severe injuries, and all three tragically succumbed at the scene. The coroner concluded by extending her personal condolences to the bereaved family.