Courts

Dublin man barred from driving after charge for alleged hit-and-run

Christopher Coleman (26) to stand trial in connection with death of cyclist in Clontarf

Eugene Maher, a father of two, was knocked off his bike while cycling in the Clontarf area on June 30th, 2015. Photograph via Twitter

Fri Nov 27 2015 - 15:46

A 26-year-old man has been barred from driving any motor vehicle after being charged over an alleged fatal hit-and-run in Dublin.

Cyclist Eugene Maher (62) from Whitehall in Dublin was seriously injured on June 30th when he was struck by a car on the Clontarf Road at the junction with Howth Road. He was taken by ambulance to Beaumont Hospital where he was later pronounced dead.

Gardaí recovered a car, launched a public appeal for witnesses, and in July questioned a male who was then released pending the preparation of a file for the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).

On Friday, at 7.03am, Christopher Coleman, of Reuben Stret, Dublin 8, was arrested at his home and taken to Clontarf Garda station. He was charged with dangerous driving causing death of Mr Maher, failing to remain at the scene, and driving without insurance and a licence.

READ MORE

He was then brought to appear before Judge Anthony Halpin at Dublin District Court.

Garda Lyn Connaughton told the court Mr Coleman “made no reply to any charge after caution”.

There was no objection to bail subject to him obeying terms which Garda Connaughton said included having to sign on once a week at his local garda station, reside at his current address and notify gardaí of any change of residence, and a condition stating he “does not drive or attempt to drive any MPV (mechanically propelled vehicle)”.

She also said the DPP has directed “trial on indictment” meaning the case will be sent forward to the circuit court.

Mr Coleman spoke once to indicate the day of the week he would prefer to sign on at Kilmainham Garda station, but he has not yet entered a plea.

Defence counsel Ann Sheridan said there was consent to an eight-week adjournment and the judge acceded to her request to grant legal aid to the accused who is unemployed.

Judge Halpin remanded him on bail with the conditions outlined to appear again at the district court on a date in January when he is to be served with a book of evidence and returned for trial.

LATEST STORIES