Driver involved in Cork crash swung plank at first responder before fleeing, court told

The accused man was refused bail

The court heard the first responder referred to in evidence was part of an ambulance crew passing the scene at the time of the collision. File picture: Denis Minihane

A first responder offering assistance to a motorist at the scene of a crash had a plank of timber swung at him and had to jump back to avoid being struck as the driver fled the scene, it was alleged at Cork District Court.

Garda Jamie Shine objected to bail being granted to the accused man, 39-year-old Michael Delaney of Bilberry halting site, Waterford, on charges that included production of an article, namely a length of timber, in the course of a dispute, dangerous driving, having no licence or insurance and other charges related to allegedly failing to remain at the scene of a collision.

Details of the alleged incident on the afternoon of Saturday, August 29, were outlined by Garda Shine at Cork District Court.

“Gardai were dispatched to Popham's Road following a report of a two-vehicle collision. On arrival at the scene gardaí were met with by a first responder, who had witnessed the incident. 

"The first responder reported to gardaí that while attempting to treat the driver of the Seat Exeo, before he fled the scene, that the driver produced a timber plank and swung it at him in a threatening manner, resulting in him having to retreat in order to not be struck.

“The traffic collision was captured on the dashcam of the vehicle owned by the first responder and the footage was provided to gardaí. The production of the timber plank was also captured on CCTV, and the driver of the Seat Exeo was identified as Michael Delaney. The timber plank was not recovered.

“Michael Delaney was later arrested and detained at Gurranabraher Garda Station where he was subsequently interviewed. Michael Delaney made no admissions in interview and denied any involvement in the incident despite being identified on CCTV.”

Garda Shine said the first responder referred to in evidence was part of an ambulance crew passing the scene at the time of the collision.

Diane Hallahan, solicitor, said it was not alleged that the plank made contact with a person and that he was not charged with assault. Garda Shine confirmed that this was the case.

Judge Treasa Kelly said: “This is a serious matter — there is no doubt about it, it is a serious matter. I am not satisfied any bail conditions would be suitable. I remand him in custody until September 7.”