Man charged over fatal garda road crash

A 24-YEAR-OLD Donegal man has been charged with causing the death by dangerous driving of a garda in the county last month.

Garda Gary McLoughlin (24), from Fenagh, Co Leitrim, died in Letterkenny General Hospital after his patrol car was involved in a collision with another car at Lisfannon, Burt, on December 13th.

Martin McDermott of Castlegrove, Raphoe, was charged with the offence at Letterkenny District Court yesterday.

Det Sgt Martin Egan of Buncrana Garda station said he arrested Mr McDermott outside the court for the offence. Det Sgt Egan said Mr McDermott made no reply when charged.

He said the office of Director of Public Prosecutions had directed on Thursday night that Mr McDermott face trial.

Counsel for Mr McDermott, Peter Nolan, said there may be submissions made on the book of evidence.

Judge Séamus Hughes said he envisaged several remands in the case and granted legal aid for a senior and junior counsel.

The judge remanded Mr McDermott in custody to appear at Harristown District Court on January 16th next.