Pensioner dies in lorry accident

A PENSIONER in his 70s died yesterday in a horrific accident involving a lorry, at Rock Street, Tralee, Co Kerry.

Michael Hurley, a retired lorry driver from Knockanmore, Abbeydorney, Co Kerry, is believed to have been crossing the street near the junction of Rock Street and Pembroke Street when the accident occurred. It is understood he had left a local pharmacy and was on his way to visit one of his daughters, who worked in an office on the other side of the street.

Mr Hurley was dragged under the lorry for more than 20 feet and it took about half an hour to free his body. A large number of gardaí responded to the emergency call.

Mr Hurley was pronounced dead at the scene, where an ambulance also attended.

Many people were on the busy street at the time and witnessed the accident and its aftermath.

The driver of the lorry was in a state of severe shock.

The late Mr Hurley was described by locals as popular and well-respected in the Abbeydorney area, which is about six miles from Tralee.

He is survived by his wife, Ann; daughters, Hannah, Margaret and Kay and son, Pat.