Garda watchdog finds police actions lawful in fatal M9 wrong-way crash

An inquiry by the police oversight agency Fiosrú determined that Gardaí’s conduct during the pursuit of a BMW on the M9 motorway was lawful and consistent with Garda policies. The vehicle, driven by five teenagers—Kamil Pustkowski, Jack Kennedy, Jeremy O’Brien, Joe “Joey” Carthy and Alex McCarthy—was traveling against traffic after being followed from the N78 in Athy. After entering the M9, the Garda pursuit was ordered to cease by the Control Room, and attempts to place a stopping device were thwarted by the driver’s multiple U-turns, leading to a head-on collision that killed the five youths and seriously injured three women and a child.

Fiosrú reviewed CCTV footage, radio communications and briefings from a forensic collision investigator, finding no breach of law or procedure. The investigation was triggered by a mandatory referral from An Garda Síochána following the deaths. Police Ombudsman Emily Logan emphasized the tragedy’s impact on families and the community while confirming the appropriateness of Garda actions.