Man crushed to death by police station gates
A man was crushed to death by police station gates in Northern Ireland after a chase ended in tragedy, it emerged today.
Ciaran Connolly, 28, suffered head and upper body injuries after he was struck by the automatic barriers at the front of the complex in Strabane, Co Tyrone.
A major inquiry was launched after Mr Connolly, of Castlegrange in the town, died in hospital following the overnight incident.
Sources have disclosed the horrific death followed a row at a nearby pub.
One said: “A man who was being pursued by at least two others was seeking refuge in the station when one of them was caught in the gates.”
As detectives began an investigation, representatives from Police Ombudsman Nuala O’Loan’s office and the Northern Ireland Health and Safety Executive were called in.
It is understood special sensors on the gates designed to stop them shutting if objects are in the way were examined for possible faults.
Acting assistant chief constable Stewart Tosh pledged to find out exactly how the accident happened.
“This was a tragic death,” he said.
“I want to reassure the family and the community of Strabane that a thorough investigation will be carried out by the police with the independent oversight of the Ombudsman and the Health and Safety Executive.
“The family will be kept fully informed of the progress of the investigation.”
Derek Hussey, an Ulster Unionist Assembly member for the area, said he was shocked by the death.
He added: “It’s a tragedy, but I’m glad it’s being fully investigated through the proper channels of the police in Strabane.”
