Man lost his life after car crossed to incorrect side of road
Coroner Pat O'Connor returned a verdict of accidental death.
A coroner has recorded a verdict of accidental death in the case of a 34-year-old scientist who died in a two-car collision in Breaffy.
David Henning, aged 34, of Derrynascoobe, Killawalla suffered fatal injuries in the head-on crash on the N60 on December 27, 2021.
Gda Liam Gaughan said he learned of the accident at 5.45pm and went to the scene with colleague Gda Mark Kilbride. Mr Henning was unconscious, while the female passenger of the other car, was complaining of chest pains. The two vehicles had been travelling in opposite directions and crashed near the centre of the road about 200 metres west of the entrance to Breaffy House Hotel.
Mr Henning had been a passenger in a 2003 Toyota Avensis driven by his father Alan. It was travelling towards Castlebar when it collided with a 2006 SEAT driven by Krzysztof Streciwilk, who was travelling towards Claremorris where he lives. Mr Streciwilk's sister, Ewelina, who was visiting from Switzerland, was injured.
Gda Gaughan said the Avensis had significant damage to its front, particularly to its passenger corner. The SEAT also sustained major damage to its front.
Paramedics treated David Henning at the scene but his condition deteriorated and he was pronounced dead at 6.05pm. The inquest heard that he suffered multiple injuries including a fractured spine, lacerated liver and a brain haemorrhage.
Both drivers were tested at the scene for alcohol and drugs and returned negative results. Each driver told Gardaí that the other one had crossed to their side of the road and caused the collision. The road was dry and weather conditions were good.
Sgt Gabriel McLoughlin, public service vehicle inspector in Mayo, said he believed David and Alan Henning were not wearing seat belts. The driver and passenger in the SEAT were wearing their seatbelts.
Sgt Patrick McElroy, forensic investigator, said gardaí found evidence that the Avensis crossed over to the other side of the road and collided with the SEAT.
Returning a verdict of accidental death, Mr O’Connor said it was a tragedy to lose someone so young in a road traffic accident and he sympathised with the Henning family. Sgt Conor Drury also offered his condolences on behalf of An Garda Síochána.
