DUBLIN BUS TRAGEDY: THE VICTIMS: KEVIN GARRY - Survivor of coma died.

SMASH victim Kevin Garry almost died in another bus crash 16 years ago.

Kevin was left in a coma following the horrific accident on the Maynooth road.

Salvation Army worker Kevin was disabled after being hit by a coach near the Hitchin Post pub in Leixlip, Co Kildare.

The 43-year-old, from Riverdale, Confey in Leixlip, eventually gained consciousness after intensive hospital care.

However, he was left seriously injured and walked with a limp.

His brother-in-law Eugene Holmwood said his wife Josie was too upset to talk about her brother's death.

Eugene added: "He was a grand fellow and a good brother to Josie. He was a quiet lad who just got on with his work.

"We are so shocked by this accident. You never expect something like this to happen.

"Josie can't talk about it at the moment, she's still trying to take it in."

Kevin was waiting for the bus home to Leixlip when the double decker careered into his stop.

Prayers were said for Kevin yesterday at Confey Church which is just a few metres from his home.

Local priest Fr Philip Corcoran said: "We prayed for him at all the masses. Kevin was a lovely man and our thoughts and prayers go out to his family."

Residents of the Riverdale estate described Kevin as a hard worker who loved soccer.

One neighbour said: "He loved Manchester United and was always talking about them.

"He used to get a lot of slagging when they were beaten.

"He was quiet and you'd hardly know he was there at times but we will all miss him."

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ACCIDENT: Kevin