Man (27) charged with dangerous driving after death of boy in Coolock

Lee Henry (13) died after being struck by car in alleged hit-and-run incident last October

Flowers at the scene where Lee Henry (13) was fatally struck by a car on the R139 in Coolock, Dublin. Photograph: Gareth Chaney/Collins
Flowers at the scene where Lee Henry (13) was fatally struck by a car on the R139 in Coolock, Dublin. Photograph: Gareth Chaney/Collins

A man is to face trial accused of dangerous driving causing death of a 13-year-old boy following an alleged hit-and-run incident in north Dublin.

Dean Shelley (27) from Casement Road, Finglas, Dublin appeared in court on Friday morning charged with dangerous driving causing the death of pedestrian Lee Henry and failing to remain at the scene, at the R139, Old N32, Coolock on October 22nd last.

The young boy suffered serious injuries when he was struck that night by a car on the R139. He was taken to Children’s University Hospital, Temple Street where he was later pronounced dead.

Garda Sergeant Noel Smyth told Judge John Lindsay at Dublin District Court that he arrested Mr Shelley at 9.20am on Friday at Coolock station.

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He was charged with the two offences and after caution he made no reply and he was handed true copies of the charge, said Garda Sgt Smyth.

He confirmed that there was no objection to bail with conditions and he asked for the case to be adjourned for six weeks for Mr Shelley to be served with a book of evidence.

Garda Sgt Smyth said the Director of Public Prosecutions has directed that all matters are to be dealt with on indictment, meaning the accused will face trial in the circuit court.

Members of Lee Henry’s family watched the proceedings from the public gallery.

Mr Shelley, who was wearing a grey jacket, white shirt and black trousers, has not yet indicated how he will plead and did not address the court.

He was remanded on bail in his own bond of €300 to appear again at the district court on September 8th when it is expected he will be served with a book and returned for trial.