Man dies 10 months after crash that claimed his children

Con Twomey lost his young son and unborn daughter in a crash in the UK last summer

Elber and Con Twomey from Meelin, north Cork, were involved in a crash in Torquay in Devon in July of last year in which their son Oisín died. Mrs Twomey was five months pregnant at the time of the collision. Doctors failed in their attempt to save her unborn child.

The occupant of the other vehicle, Polish taxi driver Marek Wojciechowski (26), died after being taken to hospital.

Twenty-five emergency service vehicles attended the incident, along with three air ambulances. Devon and Cornwall Police assistant chief constable Paul Netherton described the crash scene as “extremely traumatic”.

Mr Twomey (39) died at Cork University Hospital early Saturday morning with his relatives by his bedside.

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He had incurred multiple injuries in the crash and had battled for his life since the tragedy.

Mr Twomey was a builder by trade. In his spare time he was involved in GAA and was a talented hurler.

Elber Twomey grew up in Rockchapel, Co Cork, but moved to her husband’s native Meelin following their marriage six years ago.

The Twomeys were on holiday in the UK when the crash occurred. They were travelling to Pembroke to catch the ferry back to Rosslare when the collision took place.

They chose to bring their car to the UK rather than holiday in sun destinations in Europe because of Elber’s pregnancy. Friends say the pair also thought it would be easier on their young son to bring the car to England rather than travel further afield.

A fund was set up by locals in Torquay to make practical and financial support available to the bereaved families. Motorcyclists in north Cork also took part in a bike run fundraiser for the family.

Funeral arrangements have as yet to be finalised.