Woman (86) admits careless driving causing death in north Cork town

An 86-year-old woman appeared before Cork Circuit Criminal Court yesterday, where she affirmed signed pleas of guilty, including a charge of careless driving causing death.

Agnes Foley, of Farran, Charleville, appeared at Cork Circuit Criminal Court, before Judge Helen Boyle, and confirmed that she did not want to change her earlier, signed guilty pleas.

Foley admitted driving without due care and attention on November 2, 2024 at Main St, Rathgoggin, Middle Charleville, causing the death of Mary Fehilly. She also pleaded guilty to driving without due care and attention on November 2, 2024 at Main St, Rathgoggin, Middle Charleville, thereby causing serious bodily harm to John Collins.

Defence senior counsel, Marjorie Farrelly, said that before this date the defendant had driven for 60 years without incident. Foley was parking at the time. 

“She accidentally put her foot on the accelerator, instead of the brake,” Ms Farrelly said. 

Foley has not driven since and has written letters to the families of the deceased and the injured party.

Judge Boyle said: “The first thing to say is: My condolences to the family of the deceased lady, Mary Fehilly. I know the tragic circumstances we are dealing with.” Prosecution barrister, Imelda Kelly, said victim-impact statements from Mr Collins and from the family of the late Ms Fehilly are to be prepared. The case was adjourned for sentencing on May 19.