Gaelic Star's Hit-and-Run: Suspended Sentence Given

In October 2024, Kavan Keenan, a Gaelic footballer from Antrim, was involved in a 'hit-and-run' incident on Glenravel Road in Martinstown. He was driving a van that struck Fiona McGill, a mother of two, as she walked near her home. The victim sustained serious injuries and required treatment at the Royal Victoria Hospital's major trauma unit, with her rehabilitation continuing. Keenan initially denied being the driver but changed his plea to guilty before his trial, admitting to careless driving, failing to remain at the scene, driving without insurance, and failing to report the accident.

The court heard that Keenan drove away from the collision. The damaged van was later found at his family's home. The judge noted the significant physical and psychological impact on Ms. McGill, stating her life had changed dramatically and she had endured "many dark days and nights." The incident also affected her young sons. Despite character references highlighting Keenan's remorse and community contributions, the judge imposed a nine-month suspended sentence, considering the exceptional circumstances of the case.