Five sentenced over fatal west Belfast hit-and-run that killed man walking his dog

Five people have been sentenced at Laganside Crown Court in connection with a fatal hit-and-run collision in west Belfast which claimed the life of a man walking his dog.

Richard Gerard Boyle, aged 42, died following the collision on Stewartstown Road on Friday 5 February 2021. His dog was also killed.

The driver responsible was sentenced to 27 months, while four other defendants received suspended sentences.

Driver sentenced to 27 months

Martin Sean Olali, 27, from Lisburn, was sentenced to 27 months for causing death by careless driving, driving without insurance, failing to stop and report the collision, and perverting the course of justice.

He will serve half of his sentence in prison and the remainder on licence.

The court heard that police received a report of a serious collision involving a pedestrian at approximately 10.15pm.

Mr Boyle was taken to hospital but subsequently died from his injuries.

The vehicle involved failed to remain at the scene and was later discovered unoccupied and on fire in the Norglen area of Turf Lodge.

Four others receive suspended sentences

Four additional defendants, who had previously pleaded guilty to offences connected with the incident, were also sentenced.

Martin Paul Olali, 50, from Dromore, received a 12-month sentence suspended for two years for withholding information.

Hugh O’Neill, 28, from Belfast, was sentenced to nine months, suspended for 18 months, for assisting offenders by providing a false alibi and withholding information.

Emma McCune, 28, from Lisburn, received an 11-month sentence suspended for 18 months for withholding information.

Tiernan Holden, 25, from Belfast, was sentenced to 18 months, suspended for three years, for assisting offenders by providing transport and withholding information.

Police investigation uncovered false account

Detective Inspector Dane said the burnt-out vehicle was identified as a navy Volkswagen Golf registered and insured to Martin Sean Olali.

Police had initially received a report from Olali claiming that his vehicle and mobile phone had been stolen earlier that evening.

Investigators subsequently identified contact between Olali and Holden immediately following the collision.

Holden was arrested in April 2021, while McCune and Martin Paul Olali were arrested in October of that year.

Police acknowledge family’s loss

Following the sentencing, Detective Inspector Dane acknowledged the devastating impact of Mr Boyle’s death on his family and friends.

Police said they hoped the sentencing outcome would provide some comfort to those affected.

The detective also condemned the careless driving that resulted in the death of a man who had been enjoying an evening walk with his pet.

Other court news: Man charged with riotous behaviour following Stewartstown Road disorder in west Belfast

External link: Five people sentenced in connection with fatal west Belfast hit-and-run collision