Woman charged with careless driving causing the death of Limerick motorcyclist

A WOMAN has been charged with careless driving causing death in relation to a fatal road traffic collision in which a 33-year-old motorcyclist lost his life. 

Catherine Russell (65) of Ballyengland, Askeaton appeared before Newcastle West District Court this Tuesday and made no reply to the charge. 

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Jack O’Donoghue (33) died after a road traffic collision on the N69 at Clounreask, Askeaton, near his home on April 9, 2025. 

Ms Russell has also been charged with breaching duties when an accident occurs. 

Garda Barry Culhane gave evidence of arrest, charge and caution. 

Inspector Gearóid Thompson prosecuting for the State told the court that the DPP has consented to the accused being sent forward for trial at Limerick Circuit Court or being sent forward on a signed plea should this arise. 

The accused was accompanied by one person in court and there was a large group of 10 or more family members and friends of the late Jack O'Donoghue. 

A garda liaison officer was also in court to support and offer advice to the family and friends of Mr O'Donoghue.

A liaison officer is assigned to the family of a victim of a fatal road traffic collision and helps the family throughout the investigation. 

They provide progress on the investigation and the stage is it at, as well as providing contact details for victim support organisations. 

Judge Carol Anne Coolican remanded Ms Russell on bail on her own bond of €100 to appear again before the court at the end of April.