"It Was Like a Circus": Mother (76) Devastated As Onlookers Film Son’s Final Moments As He Drowned

Friday, 2 May 2025 15:23

By Martin Osborne

Senior emergency officials also criticised the behaviour, calling it a disturbing trend and urging the public to show more respect and compassion during emergencies.

The heartbroken mother of a man who drowned in the River Lee this week has spoken out against those who recorded the tragedy instead of helping.

Elizabeth Hyde, 76, said she was "disgusted" by the actions of bystanders who filmed the final moments of her son Luke Hyde, 34, as he struggled in the water near Pope’s Quay on Wednesday.

Emergency services rushed to the scene, but Luke could not be saved.

Authorities later confirmed that footage of the incident, including the recovery of Luke’s body, was shared on social media.

Speaking to RedFM's Neil Prendeville Show, she said: “It was like a circus. Them watching my son drown instead of trying to help him.”

Senior emergency officials also criticised the behaviour, calling it a disturbing trend and urging the public to show more respect and compassion during emergencies.

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