Man charged over crash that killed garda and fireman

A 19-YEAR-OLD carpenter was yesterday charged in connection with the fatal crash that claimed the life of a garda and a firefighter in Co Limerick last February.

Niall Shannon, from Lenamore, Ballylongford, Co Kerry, was returned for trial at Rathkeale District Court, sitting in Newcastle West charged with dangerous driving causing the deaths of Garda Brian Kelleher, 46, and Mike Liston, 47, at Barrigone, Askeaton on February 25.

He is also facing summonses for drink driving and with driving with a bald tyre.

Garda Kelleher and firefighter Mr Liston were killed instantly while attending the scene of a single car accident on the Foynes/Askeaton road.

State solicitor Aidan Judge told Judge Mary O’Halloran at yesterday’s court hearing that a book of evidence had been served on the accused and he asked that Shannon be returned for trial to the next sitting of Limerick Circuit Criminal Court.

Sgt Peter Kelly of Henry Street gave evidence of arresting Shannon at Bishop Street, Newcastle West, shortly before yesterday’s court hearing.

Mr Judge said the Director of Public Prosecutions had consented to the application to have Shannon returned for trial at the Circuit Court and he said it was an appropriate case for the accused to be given advice by the court if he intended to raise an alibi.

Judge O’Halloran granted free legal aid and remanded Shannon on bail of €1,000.

Mr Judge asked that the drink driving and bald tyre summonses be adjourned as it was intended to add them to the indictment later.