OAP with modified vehicle at centre of probe into crash that injured Irish cyclists
An elderly driver is being investigated by Spanish police following a horrific crash that left four Irish cyclists injured.According to the cycling website Sticky Bottle, Spanish media is reporting that the man, in his 70s, was driving a modified car when he ploughed into the cyclists earlier this month.Three cyclists involved in the incident aged 56, 59 and 62, were rushed to hospital while another is understood to have received medical assistance at the scene.They were part of a larger group of six riders who had just arrived in Spain for a cycling holiday and were out for their first ride when the incident happened on the CV-925 road close to the La Pedrera reservoir, one of the region’s most stunning attractions in the municipality of Orihuela.Two of the men were described as being in a serious condition in hospital while a third is critical due to a head injury. However, Donal Goulding of Ballincollig Crusaders Cycling Club in Co Cork is believed to be the mostly seriously injured.A GoFundMe appeal, to meet Goulding’s medical expenses and the costs that will be incurred by his family, including going to Spain to be with him, is already close to its €100,000 goal.Read moreKiller rapist back behind bars amid fears he remains a danger to womenMeanwhile, one line of investigation being pursued by Spanish police is that the driver was controlling his car, for speed and braking, with sticks or canes. Spanish media has reported the police are investigating if the car was modified to allow him drive in that manner, and if the modifications are legal.A video of the crash has also emerged, appearing to show the vehicle passing some of the riders at the back of the group before it goes up onto the pavement.Images suggest the car apparently cutting across the road before stopping on a raised central reserve, having hit several cyclists in the process.According to the GoFundMe set up for Donal Goulding, the fundraiser is for him and his family “at their time of need”.Any money raised is to be spent to support Sinead, Nicola and Jake “during this period, so that they can pay for flights, accommodation and whatever is needed in order for them to be by his bedside during this tough time”.It states that Donal ‘Donie’ Goulding, a Senior Chief Petty Officer with the Irish Naval Service, “is someone who has dedicated his life to service—both at sea and within his community”.“Known for his kindness, generosity, and unwavering willingness to help others, Donie is the type of person who shows up when people need him most,” it adds.Outside of his naval career, Donie’s great passion is cycling, and “as a proud member of the Ballincollig Crusaders Cycling Club, he has spent countless hours on the road with friends, building connections and supporting fellow cyclists”.“Each year, he looked forward to traveling to Spain, where his club would stay and cycle with their friends at Orihuela Costa Cycling—a tradition filled with camaraderie, sunshine, and the simple joy of the open road.On Wednesday, April 8, Donie arrived in Spain for what was meant to be another memorable week of cycling with friends. After getting fitted for their bikes, the group headed out for a short spin—something they had done many times before. Tragically, during this ride, a number of cyclists were struck by a car.”Read moreX Factor finalist arrested after shocking video emerges of well-known influencer being hit by carAccording to the fundraiser, Donie has suffered the most severe injuries in the group, “and is currently in a coma in a local hospital, and while information is still emerging, the situation is critical”.“As his family comes to terms with this devastating news, one thing is clear: they need to be by Donie’s side. Traveling to Spain, securing accommodation, and taking time away from work all come at a significant and unexpected financial cost during an already overwhelming time.”It stats that the fundraiser has been created to support Donie’s family, “to help ease the financial burden so they can focus entirely on what matters most: being there for him”.“Donie has spent his life helping others. Now, it’s our turn to help him.Any contribution, no matter how small, will make a difference. If you are unable to donate, please consider sharing this page to help spread the word.Thank you for your support, your kindness, and your prayers for Donie and his family.”
