Book of Evidence served on Greencastle woman (67) over fatal collision

A 67-year-old Inishowen woman has been returned for trial in connection with a fatal road traffic collision that claimed the life of a young Buncrana man almost two years ago.

Lynda O’Doherty, of The Links, Greencastle, appeared before Carndonagh District Court sitting in Buncrana, where the Book of Evidence was formally served on her.

Ms O’Doherty faces a charge of careless driving causing the death of Jimmy McKenna (pictured below). She is also charged with drink driving arising from the same incident, which occurred at Ballynally, Moville, on June 9, 2024.

The court was told that Garda Tara McGrory, attached to Carndonagh Garda Station, served the Book of Evidence on the accused.

Sergeant Conor Mulkerns informed the court that the Director of Public Prosecutions has directed that Ms O’Doherty be sent forward for trial to the next sitting of Letterkenny Circuit Court, commencing on May 5, 2026.

Judge Emile Daly noted that the Book of Evidence had been formally served and that the declaration of service was complete. She subsequently made an order returning Ms O’Doherty for trial by judge and jury.

During the hearing, Judge Daly also issued what is known as an alibi warning. This means that if the accused intends to rely on alibi evidence as part of her defence, she must notify the State Solicitor within 14 days. A standard Section 56 order, relating to the disclosure of Garda interviews, was also granted.

There was no objection to bail, and Ms O’Doherty was released on continuing bail.

Legal Aid was granted to her solicitor, Patsy Gallagher, for two counsel in light of the seriousness of the charge.

Mr Gallagher also requested a lengthy adjournment in relation to the associated drink driving charge. Judge Daly agreed to adjourn that matter until October 20, with Legal Aid also approved for that case.

The court was told that solicitor Ciaran MacLochlainn is holding a watching brief on behalf of the family of the deceased. It was noted that Mr McKenna’s parents were present in court for the proceedings.

Ms O’Doherty did not speak during the brief hearing. Before leaving the courtroom, she signed a bail bond as required.