Man (92) charged over collision that killed young Ballina girl

A 92-year-old man will stand trial next month accused of careless driving causing the death of a four-year-old Ballina girl in a caravan park in Enniscrone last year.

Patrick Higgins of Killymeal Road, Dungannon, Co Tyrone was brought before Sligo District Court last Thursday (7 Dec) to be formally charged with driving a vehicle without due care and attention, thereby causing the death of Alice Dunleavy of Lord Edward Street, Ballina at Atlantic Caravan Park, Enniscrone, Co Sligo, on August 5, 2022.

He was represented by defence solicitor Mr Gabriel Toolan.

Garda Michael Cunningham of Tubbercurry Garda Station gave evidence of arresting Higgins at 12.14pm on Thursday and charging him with the alleged offence. Gda Cunningham said the accused made no reply after he was cautioned.

Sergeant Derek Butler told Judge Deirdre Gearty that the Book of Evidence was ready.

Garda Conor McNulty then testified that he had served the accused with the Book of Evidence and handed the judge a signed declaration.

Sgt Butler applied to the court to have Higgins returned for trial to the next sittings of Sligo Circuit Criminal Court on 23 January 2024.

Judge Gearty remanded the accused on bail and sent him forward for trial in January.

Alice Dunleavy’s inquest was opened and adjourned by Sligo County Coroner Mr Eamon MacGowan at Sligo Coroner’s Court on Monday last, December 4, to allow for the conclusion of criminal proceedings against Higgins.