Death crash cyclist saves 5 lives Coroner’s donor tribute
A CYCLIST who was killed after he crashed into a pedestrian has saved five lives by donating his organs.
The death of Bernard Tully, 59, is believed to be the first fatality of its kind in the country. He left his home to cycle in the Phoenix Park when tragedy struck.
His wife of 20 years Joan Curry told Dublin Coroner’s Court: “He went out before dinner. He would cycle most days in the park, up and down Chesterfield Avenue.
“He had worn a helmet in the past but more recently had taken to not wearing it.”
Mr Tully, of Parkview, Castleknock, West Dublin, normally cycled for around 40 minutes and when he had not returned by 9.30pm his wife became concerned and went to the park to search for him.
His decision to carry an organ donor card saved five lives. Returning a verdict of accidental death, Coroner Dr Myra Cullinane commended the family’s “generous gesture” to donate Mr Tully’s organs
Derek Brennan was on the pedestrian path with his wife when he heard a bang.
He told the court: “I saw someone in a yellow jacket projected into the air.”
Mr Brennan saw another man injured on the grass and called 999.
Mr Tully was rushed to Beaumont Hospital where he died two days later from head injuries.
The pedestrian was crossing the cycle lane from the pedestrian lane in order to exit the park. He said: “I started to cross over. I don’t remember a collision. The only memory I have is lying on the ground.”
Gardai recommended the cycle and pedestrian paths be swapped. Detective Inspector Hayde told the inquiry: “There have been other accidents. At the zoo, families place their children in immediate danger by stopping their cars and alighting onto the cycle path.” Bernard Tully