Man accused of fatal Wexford crash denied bail over flight risk fears
A man arrested in connection with a fatal road traffic collision in the N25 at Ballykelly near Drinagh, outside of Wexford town, has been denied bail before Wexford District Court.Michael Connors (44) of Garryduff, Paulstown, Kilkenny, was previously charged before the court with an offence of driving without a licence, driving without insurance, refusal to give a specimen, and hit and run in relation to a crash which claimed the life of local man aged in his 60s.Garda Tadgh Moran informed the court there were objections to bail on the grounds that there are An Garda Síochána concerns that Connors will interfere with witnesses involved in the case. One witness, who was a passenger in the vehicle with the accused is healing from their injuries and was said to be willing to cooperate with gardaí and has made a statement.Read morePrisoner on the run after fleeing on Christmas DayThere were also concerns that the defendant is a flight risk. Garda Moran stated that Connors holds a UK passport and also has an address in the UK. The court heard that while in custody Connors also attempted to give his name as “Larry” to the gardaí.The court heard that on the evening Connors allegedly attempted to flee the scene of the accident on foot and was apprehended by members of the community. He was arrested a three to four minute walk from the scene of the accident.Hugh Hogan BL, barrister for the accused said that Connors was brought up by his brother after he lost his parents at a young age and that he suffers with substance abuse issues, as well as having mental health difficulties. He attempted to alleviate concerns by stating that the accused is not from Wexford and does not have information as to the whereabouts of any of the witnesses involved so he could not interfere with them.The top crime stories of 2025 He also stated that gardaí are in possession of the passport of the defendant which should reduce the concern that Connors is a flight risk coupled with the fact he is not a man of significant means.Mr Hogan BL informed the court Connors is contesting all charges and maintains his innocence from the night in question. Counsel put forward various conditions which his client would be agreeable to if granted bail including residing at an address in Dublin, signing on daily, and to engage with mental health services regarding his addiction issues. He added Connors has every intention of coming to court in order to “clear his name”.Read moreSerial conman with 90 convictions duped car seller out of €400Garda Moran stated these conditions would not alleviate his concerns as the accused allegedly attempted to hinder investigations by providing false information as well as allegedly attempting to flee the scene leaving the passenger trapped in the car.Judge Cheatle stated he had concerns regarding the alleged actions of the accused immediately following the incident and refused bail.The matter has been adjourned to December 30 at Cloverhill district court to be remanded back to Wexford district court on a date after the Christmas period.Funded by the Courts Reporting Scheme.
