Irish drummer Martin O’Connor killed in Florida hit-and-run

There is sadness in the world of music following the death of an artist in a hit-and-run incident in Florida. Martin O’Connor, 41, was a drummer with a variety of country and Irish performers.

He hit by a BMW in the early hours of Saturday. It happened while he was crossing US 441 in Florida. The local police report described Mr O’Connor, as an “Irish tourist”.

"Just before 5am, the victim from Frenchpark in Co Roscommon was walking along with two friends, who were also visiting from Ireland". The police report continues “For unknown reasons, the victim began walking across the road, and he was hit.”

Police later arrested the driver of the car. A 35-year-old man named as Richard Jennings is now facing a charge of leaving the scene of an accident causing death.

It is thought Mr O’Connor was to act as a drummer for singer Declan Nerney this week on board a popular All Star Irish Charter Cruise in the Caribbean.

Tributes have been paid to Mr O’Connor, including on social media: