Gardaí searching for crash youth

GARDAÍ are searching for the teenage driver of a car which crashed, killing two girls, who has absconded from health board care.

Gardaí confirmed yesterday that a warrant has been issued for the arrest of the 16-year-old, who has already made a number of court appearances in connection with the crash last October, near Carrigaholt, Co Clare.

“We’re aware he has left the accommodation in which he was staying. We’re liaising with various social services and are also checking out addresses to which he may have access,” said a Garda spokesperson.

There are also fears he may have fled the country.

He was the driver of the car in which Stacy Haugh aged 16, and Lorna Mahoney, aged 13, were killed when it crashed into a wall at high speed.

He has since been charged with dangerous driving causing the deaths of the two girls.

It was discovered over two weeks ago that he had again absconded after he failed to appear at Ennis District Court in connection with the offences.

Meanwhile, Lorna Mahoney’s father, Edward, yesterday said it was an absolute scandal that the youth had managed to escape.

“I think it is vital for everyone’s sake that he be apprehended as soon as possible,” Mr Mahoney was quoted as saying in the Sunday World.