25 Years Since Kirsty MacColl Was Killed.

English singer-songwriter Kirsty MacColl died in a tragic accident, 25 years ago today on 18 December 2000, while on holiday in Cozumel, Mexico.

She, her partner, and her two teenage sons were diving at the Chankanaab reef, which was off-limits to boats.

A powerboat entered the restricted zone at high speed as the group surfaced from a dive, and Kirsty saved her son from harm by pushing him aside.

Tragically, she was then struck by the boat itself, suffering severe chest and head injuries, and died instantly, at the age of 41.

Her body was later returned to the UK and cremated following a service at Mortlake Crematorium in Kew.

The accident resulted in a culpable homicide conviction for local deckhand José Cen Yam, but under Mexican law, he was allowed to avoid prison by paying a fine and damages.

However, he was seen as a scapegoat by MacColl's family, who believed the boat's wealthy owner (Carlos González Nova) was actually driving and should have been held responsible.

Kirsty MacColl is fondly remembered for her distinctive voice and songwriting, and particularly at this time of year for her vocal performance on The Pogues’ Christmas classic “Fairytale of New York.”