Canada

Vancouver News: Victim of hit and run identified

The 24-year-old man killed in a collision and flight in Kizilano on Sunday night has been identified as Johann Byrne, a native of Dublin.

His relatives have been featured on an Irish memorial site, describing Byrne as an “adored son” and a “handsome brother” who survived his “heartfelt parents, siblings in love” and “a wide range of special friends”.

Byrne joined STEMCELL Technologies in Vancouver in April 2022. In an email, the company said:

“Those of us who were lucky enough to work with Eoghan quickly became close to him during his short time in our company and met an extremely good soul who was dedicated to his work and his colleagues.”

“We are all deeply saddened by Johan’s sudden and unexpected passing and our hearts are with his family during this extremely difficult time.”

Byrne was crossing 4th Avenue near Arbutus Street with a friend on Sunday night when he was hit and killed by an accelerating sedan that fled the scene.

On Tuesday, Vancouver police announced that a 25-year-old man and his 63-year-old relative had been arrested in connection with a collision and running. Police believe the younger man was driving and a member of his family is suspected of being an accomplice.

Both suspects have been released pending further investigation, but police are convinced charges will be filed.