GAA referee died instantly after car hit oncoming vehicle

A well-known GAA intercounty referee died instantly after his car crossed the road into the path of an oncoming vehicle, an inquest heard yesterday.

There were heavy gusts of wind at the time of the accident which claimed the life of Shane Hourigan, aged 44. He had left his home at Ballywilliam, Rathkeale, Co Limerick, and the accident happened nearby at Reens.

A coroner’s court in Limerick was told he died from extensive injuries. Two men in the other vehicle were seriously injured.