Scarlett Rossborough: Questions remain over inquest three years after Carrickfergus tragedy

Questions remain over the inquest into the death of eight-year-old Scarlett Rossborough, who was killed when a car mounted the pavement on High Street in Carrickfergus in August 2023. The driver later admitted causing her death by dangerous driving and received a suspended prison sentence.

More than three years after Scarlett Rossborough was killed in Carrickfergus, questions remain over the inquest into the eight-year-old’s death.

Scarlett, from Larne, died after being struck by a vehicle on High Street, Carrickfergus, on 9 August 2023.

She had been walking with other children and adult leaders from a community summer scheme during a visit to Carrickfergus when the tragedy happened.

The vehicle, driven by Carrickfergus pensioner John Noble Lindsay, mounted the pavement and struck three children.

Scarlett suffered catastrophic injuries and could not be saved.

Two other children were also struck but escaped serious injury.

For more local news and updates, visit the Northern Ireland Online Carrickfergus page.

Driver admitted causing Scarlett Rossborough’s death

The case subsequently came before Belfast Crown Court.

Lindsay initially admitted causing Scarlett’s death by careless driving but denied causing death by dangerous driving.

However, in October 2024 he changed his plea and admitted causing Scarlett’s death by dangerous driving.

According to the official Northern Ireland Judiciary sentencing judgment, Lindsay had been attempting to reposition his vehicle when it suddenly accelerated, mounted the pavement and struck the group.

The court heard evidence surrounding possible pedal misapplication, where a driver presses the accelerator instead of the brake.

In January 2025, Lindsay was sentenced to 10 months’ imprisonment, suspended for 12 months.

He was also disqualified from driving.

The court took account of several factors, including his age, significant health problems, previous driving record and guilty plea.

The full judgment can be read through the Judiciary NI website.

Judge paid tribute to Scarlett

During sentencing, Belfast Recorder Judge Patricia Smyth spoke about the devastating effect Scarlett’s death had on her family.

The official judgment described Scarlett as a much-loved eight-year-old who enjoyed gymnastics, sport, art and spending time with her family.

Scarlett attended Linn Primary School in Larne.

Judge Smyth said:

“The enormity of the tragedy cannot be put into words.”

Scarlett was described by the court as a happy and caring child who was deeply loved by her family.

Coverage of the sentencing was also reported by UTV and RTÉ News.

Questions remain over Scarlett Rossborough inquest

Attention has now returned to the separate inquest into Scarlett Rossborough’s death.

An inquest is separate from criminal proceedings and is intended to establish the circumstances surrounding a death.

The criminal case against Lindsay concluded with his sentencing in January 2025.

However, more than three years after the collision, the inquest process surrounding Scarlett’s death remains an important issue for her family.

The latest developments have once again put the circumstances surrounding the tragedy and the length of the process under scrutiny.

Family campaign for ‘Scarlett’s Law’

Scarlett’s family have also campaigned for changes to driving rules for elderly motorists following her death.

The proposed reforms have become known as “Scarlett’s Law”.

The campaign has raised wider questions about whether drivers should face additional medical, eyesight or competency checks as they get older.

During Lindsay’s sentencing, Judge Smyth acknowledged the family’s campaign and the broader concerns surrounding elderly drivers.

The UK Government has also considered changes to eyesight requirements for older motorists.

In January 2026, the Department for Transport launched a consultation on introducing mandatory eyesight testing for drivers aged 70 and over.

You can read the official consultation on the UK Government website.

Drivers in Great Britain currently have to renew their driving entitlement at 70 and then every three years.

Northern Ireland has its own driver licensing system, operated through the Driver & Vehicle Agency.

More information is available from nidirect.

Remembering Scarlett

Scarlett’s death had a profound impact across Larne and Carrickfergus.

Following the tragedy, she was remembered as a popular and energetic young girl with an infectious sense of fun.

Her family have continued working to keep her memory alive while campaigning for changes they hope could help prevent another family suffering a similar tragedy.

Northern Ireland Online will continue to follow developments surrounding the Scarlett Rossborough inquest, Scarlett’s Law and any proposed changes to road safety legislation.