Donegal man pleads guilty to dangerous driving causing death of young mother of one
Connaughton pleaded guilty to a charge of dangerous driving causing death, contrary to section 53 (1) of the Road Traffic Act.
Laura Connolly, a 34-year-old female pedestrian from Lifford, was killed following a road traffic collision at around 2.45am.
Ms Connolly, a mother of one, was taken by ambulance to Letterkenny University Hospital, where she was later pronounced deceased.
A large number of Ms Connolly's family were in the courtroom for the short arraignment.
Connaughton spoke only to plead guilty to the charge.
Defence barrister Peter Nolan BL, led by Colm Smyth, SC and instructed by solicitor Frank Dorrian said Connaughton had been on bail in relation to the matter for four years without any difficulty and had not come to the attention of gardaí.
Mr Nolan requested a probation and welfare report while the court heard Connaughton has been attending his GP and a GP report was also requested.
Mr Nolan acknowledged the impact of the incident on the family of the deceased, adding the incident had caused stress and anxiety for Connaughton and he requested a psychiatric report be carried out.
Mr Nolan said Connaughton was a family man who has two children and was the 'breadwinner' of the family.
State Prosecutor Ms Fiona Crawford said there was no objection to continuing bail.
The court heard the case had been constantly on the list and the family of the deceased is anxious to have the matter dealt with as soon as possible.
Judge Roderick Maguire approved the request for the reports.
Judge Maguire explained there were ongoing delays in obtaining probation reports and the report may not be ready for the October sitting.
Judge Maguire said given the nature of the case and the upset caused, he preferred if the case not on the list any more than necessary.
The matter was adjourned to the October sitting of Letterkenny Circuit Court.
Judge Maguire also extended his sympathies to the family of the deceased who were present in court.
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