Woman (61) charged with dangerous driving causing death of cyclist in Dublin

Tom Tuite

A woman has been charged with dangerous driving causing the death of a cyclist in Dublin last year.

John Walsh, a father of three in his 40s, from Malahide and a member of the UCD cycling club, died following a collision with a car at Malahide Road in north Dublin early on the morning of February 18th, 2024.

Mr Walsh worked as a solicitor for AIB and was a member and captain of the UCD Cycling Club.

He was taken to Beaumont Hospital with serious injuries after the collision.

He later died in hospital.

Marcella Duffy, 61, of Streamstown Lane, Malahide, Dublin, was charged on February 13th, at Coolock Garda Station.

She was granted station bail pending her appearance at Dublin District Court on Friday.

Giving evidence of arrest, charge and caution, Detective Garda Jason Flynn told Judge John King that Ms Duffy "made no reply" when charged.

The accused, who did not address the court, is accused of driving a 2021-reg vehicle in a manner, including speed, which, having regard to all the circumstances of the case, including the condition of the vehicle and amount of traffic there or expected, was dangerous to the public, thereby causing the death of John Walsh at Malahide Road.

Detective Garda Flynn said that the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) directed trial on indictment, meaning the case would be dealt with in the Circuit Court.

The DPP instructed gardaí that the accused could also be sent forward on a signed plea.

Defence solicitor Michael O'Connor said he received disclosure of evidence.

Judge King adjourned the case until March 21st for her to indicate her attitude about the signed plea, or to grant a further adjournment if a book of evidence would be required.

Ms Duffy, who did not address the court, was remanded on continuing bail.

Legal aid was granted.

Members of the deceased's family watched the proceedings from the public gallery.