Elaine Mitchell, a BBC News NI south-west reporter, covered the tragic story of a nine-year-old boy named Ronan Wilson who was killed in a hit-and-run incident in Bundoran in 2023. Dean Wilson, the father of the victim, expressed the family’s grief by stating that nothing can bring back their beloved “wee rascal.” The culprit, Sergee Kelly, was sentenced to five years in prison for causing Ronan’s death in a reckless hit-and-run crash on Atlantic Way in County Donegal.
During the court proceedings, it was revealed that Ronan was struck by Kelly’s car, which was travelling at a speed between 105-110 km/h, while returning from the shops with his older brother. The impact of the collision resulted in Ronan suffering catastrophic brain injury and dying at the scene. Kelly fled the scene, leaving Ronan’s body 58m away from the point of impact. His car was later identified through CCTV footage, which led to his arrest the following morning.
Kelly, who had a previous history of assault and careless driving convictions, was remorseful during the court hearing and apologized to the Wilson family for the tragic loss of their son. Despite expressing regret and being sentenced to five years in prison, Ronan’s family, particularly his mother Emma, shared the deep pain and void left by his absence. The family commemorated what would have been Ronan’s 11th birthday by gathering at his grave and remembering the young boy who was greatly loved and missed.
In response to Ronan’s death, Donegal County Council installed speed bumps along the road where the accident occurred, a move that the Wilson family believes should have been implemented sooner. Dean Wilson expressed frustration over the delayed response, emphasizing the need for safety measures in a busy area surrounded by attractions like amusements and go-kart tracks. The family continues to mourn Ronan’s untimely passing and seeks solace in honoring his memory as a cherished member of their lives
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