Pensioner died of injuries after cliff fall, inquiry finds

A pensioner found injured at the bottom of dangerous cliffs in west Cork was airlifted to hospital but died a week later.

A pensioner found injured at the bottom of dangerous cliffs in west Cork was airlifted to hospital but died a week later.

James Byrne (72) from Ballinglanna in Clonakilty lay undetected on the rocks overnight having fallen from a cliff top about a kilometre from his home on December 28th last.

A verdict of accidental death was recorded at an inquest at Cork City Coroner’s Court yesterday.

Neighbours began searching for Mr Byrne on December 29th after his home help called to his home but found no trace of him.

READ MORE

Garda Clinton Rock said the cliffs are fenced off and there are signs on the fence warning people of the dangers.

Coroner Dr Myra Cullinane said it appeared as if Mr Byrne had become confused, had wandered from his home and tragically fallen from the cliffs, resulting in injuries that ultimately proved fatal.