Derry family left 'devastated' by decision not to prosecute gardai involved in woman's death

The family of a Derry woman who died after being hit by a Garda patrol car have been told no officers involved will be prosecuted over her death.

Rebecca Browne, 21, from the Galliagh area, died in May 2023 in Buncrana after a night out when she was struck by the garda vehicle.

The collision had been referred to the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission (GSOC).

In a statement on Wednesday, GSOC said Ireland's Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) had informed them of its decision not to direct a prosecution and notified all relevant parties, including Ms Browne's family and Garda members involved.

They said that while GSOC can make no further comment at this time, it will "continue to engage with the Browne family in the context of coronial proceedings and any other statutory processes that may arise".

The DPP said they do not comment on individual cases.

Solicitors representing the Browne family said the family had not been consulted of the decision.

Conor Moylan of Madden & Finucane Solicitors described the decision not to prosecute any officers as 'outrageous'.

Mr Moylan said: "“Yesterday’s decision, by the Director of Public Prosecutions, not to prosecute the officer responsible is outrageous. Rebecca’s family have been let down by the Irish State and are devastated by this decision. The DPP did not have the courtesy to consult the Browne family in relation to their decision.

“We have requested the full written reasons, together with all documents, consultation notes, expert opinions and reports, and memoranda which have given rise to this decision.

“It is our intention to challenge this decision by way of Judicial Review.”