Teenager Describes Trauma After Father's Manslaughter by Mother

In a heart-wrenching court session, Eliska ‘Ellie’ Ryan, a 16-year-old girl, provided an emotional victim impact statement detailing the traumatic events surrounding the death of her father, James ‘Shey’ Ryan, who was killed by her mother, Olesja Hertova, 50, on August 10, 2024. The case, which highlighted the impacts of domestic violence, revealed a family shattered by hostility and fear.

According to statements made during the court proceedings, Ellie described her upbringing in a tumultuous household filled with "hostility," where she witnessed frequent altercations between her parents. In her statement, which was read in court, Ellie expressed the deep emotional scars left by her father's death, stating, "My dad was more than just a parent to me; he was the person who made me feel safe, especially in a home filled with fear, shouting, and unpredictability."

James Ryan, a retired member of the Defence Forces, was fatally injured when he was pushed to the ground by Hertova, following a night of drinking. The incident escalated after Ryan returned home from a local pub, leading to a violent confrontation that resulted in his fatal injuries. The court heard that Ellie attempted to intervene during the altercation, recalling how she often felt compelled to protect her father from her mother's unpredictable behavior when she consumed alcohol.

Detective Sergeant Eoin McDonnell, who led the investigation, provided insights into the events of that fateful night. He reported that following the push, Ryan suffered a fractured skull and severe brain injuries, ultimately leading to his death the following day at Beaumont Hospital. Despite having pre-existing health conditions, the autopsy concluded that the cause of death was blunt force trauma resulting from the fall.

The courtroom was filled with emotion as Ellie recounted the moment she witnessed her father's injuries. "I saw the blood on the floor. I watched my dad, my protector, my safe place, slip away right in front of me," she said. The gravity of her statement resonated deeply, highlighting the profound psychological impact the incident had on her life.

Hertova, who pleaded guilty to manslaughter in May 2025, has been in custody since her arrest on August 27, 2024. During the proceedings, she exhibited visible remorse, sobbing as her daughter’s statement was read. Her defense counsel noted her lack of previous convictions and the deep remorse she expressed for her actions, stating that she wished to return to her family in the Czech Republic.

Judge Martin Nolan presided over the sentencing hearing, which included multiple victim impact statements from Ryan’s family. The emotional weight of the testimonies underscored the ripple effects of domestic violence, not only on victims but also on families and communities.

The case has raised awareness about the pervasive issue of domestic violence and its devastating consequences. Experts argue that increased support systems for victims and interventions for perpetrators are necessary to prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future. Dr. Susan Thompson, a psychologist specializing in domestic violence, stated, "The psychological impact on children who witness domestic violence is profound and long-lasting. It is crucial for society to recognize these patterns and take action to provide support and intervention."

As the court awaits sentencing, the case serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for effective measures to combat domestic violence and protect vulnerable individuals within the home. The Ryan family’s tragedy highlights the importance of creating safer environments for families and children, ensuring that no one has to endure the horrors that Ellie has faced.