A petition has been launched for the introduction of a new law to “prevent the sharing of images from accident or fatal scenes” following a tragic road death in Newry.
The fatal incident involving a lorry took the life of 67-year-old John O’Brien on October 8.
He had been living in Warrenpoint but was affectionately nicknamed ‘Scottish John’ for his roots, having originally hailed from Polmont, Scotland.
During the time of the tragic incident – while emergency services were on route – a member of the public took images of the horrific scene and subsequently shared them.
A 47-year-old woman was subsequently arrested by detectives in the city on October 23 in connection to the matter and has been questioned on suspicion of misuse of a public electronic network to send a grossly offensive message.
The sharing of incredibly graphic imagery online caused extreme upset to those in the local community, especially to those who knew and loved John… who were already battling unimaginable heartbreak.
In response, members of Camlough Men’s Shed – where John was a valued member and friend – have with the support of his sister launched a petition to the Northern Ireland Assembly for the introduction of ‘Scottish John’s Law’.
In their petition they say this law will prevent the sharing of images from accident or fatal incident scenes.
The petition statement reads: “We, the undersigned, call upon the Northern Ireland Assembly, the Department of Justice (NI), and the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) to take urgent action to introduce legislation known as ‘Scottish John’s Law’.
“This law would make it a criminal offence to record, share, or publish images or video footage from the scene of a fatal or serious accident without the explicit consent of the victim’s next of kin.
“On 8th October 2025, our dear friend John O’Brien, known affectionately as Scottish John, was tragically killed after being struck by a lorry in Newry city centre.
“In the aftermath of this horrific event, graphic and deeply distressing images from the scene were shared online without consent.
“This caused severe emotional trauma to John’s grieving family, his friends, and many in the community — including vulnerable people from local mental health and support groups where John was a valued member.
“Such acts rob victims of their dignity and add unbearable pain to already devastated families. Sadly, this is not an isolated incident — the absence of clear legislation in Northern Ireland leaves families exposed and without protection.”
They are requesting the Northern Ireland Assembly to enact ‘Scottish John’s Law’ to create a “clear offence prohibiting the unauthorised recording or sharing of images from accident or fatal incident scenes.
“Require immediate removal of such content by social media platforms upon request by law enforcement or affected families.
“Launch a public awareness campaign to educate the public about the harm and legal consequences of sharing traumatic imagery.
“Develop support and guidance for families and individuals impacted by the circulation of such content.”
The purpose of the ‘Scottish John’s Law’ would ultimately be to “protect the dignity and privacy of victims”, “prevent further trauma to grieving families”, and “promote compassion and decency in our digital culture.”
The statement concludes: “Let this law stand as a legacy of respect, love, and humanity, ensuring that no other family must endure the same pain.”
Since it was launched on October 28, it has received over 1,700 verified signatures.
You can read and sign the petition here.
