Man faces trial over crash that claimed Clare woman’s life

A MAN has appeared in court charged in connection with a fatal road crash that claimed the life of a Clare woman earlier this year.

Damien McNamara (38) appeared before Ennis District Court this Wednesday charged with dangerous driving causing the death of Stephanie Fitzpatrick, at Cloonaveigh, Lahinch Road, near Ennistymon on February 19, 2022. 

Ms Fitzpatrick, who was from Lisdoonvarna, was a front seat passenger in the car when the collision occurred.

In court this Wednesday, Sergeant David O’Connor of Ennistymon garda station gave evidence of the arrest, charge and caution of Damien McNamara. 

McNamara, with an address at Lissatunna, Ennistymon, made no reply to the single charge when it was put to him, the court heard. 

Solicitor Daragh Hassett was assigned legal aid to represent the accused.

Mr Hassett told the court he had no questions regarding the arrest, charge and caution of his client.

Sergeant Aiden Longeran said gardaí had no objections to bail subject to the accused abiding by certain conditions. 

The court heard McNamara must surrender his passport and not have contact with any material witnesses in the case. 

Judge Mary Larkin granted bail on McNamara’s own bond of €300. 

Sergeant Lonergan said the director of public prosecutions (DPP) has directed that the case is to proceed on indictment to the circuit criminal court. 

Judge Larkin adjourned the case to a later date for service of the book of evidence.