The drunk driver who crashed and killed Lucy McCellaton, a West Belfast woman, was imprisoned today (Friday) before fleeing the scene of the fatal crash.
Gerard McCroar appeared in Belfast Crown Court, where he was sentenced to six years in prison for the death of Mrs. McElhaton for unsafe driving.
The 45-year-old from Dermot Hill Road in Belfast was told he would spend three years in prison, followed by a three-year supervision license.
24-year-old Ms McCellaton and her boyfriend were hit by a silver Toyota Avensis while driving on Springfield Road at around 9pm on Sunday, January 3, 2021.
The couple went to the store, had just stopped in front of a jar to pack candy and were on the sidewalk when Avensis hit them from behind.
Prior to Ms McCellaton’s death at the scene, McCormack – who was described as “not at all” – fought a police officer and then escaped.
When Judge Neil Ravert QC arrested his father and grandfather of three for four crimes, he spoke of the devastating impact of his actions.
Ms. McElhaton’s partner attended today’s meeting with her mother, father and other relatives.
Addressing loved ones, Judge Rafferty said that after reading their “shocking” statements about the impact of the victims, it was clear that their loss was incalculable.
Her boyfriend, Oliver Crothers, who was injured in the accident, spoke of her “complete devastation” by losing a woman he wanted to live with, describing her as “the most wonderful and kindest person I have ever met.” .
Statements made by Mrs. McIlhaton’s parents, Adrian and Language, said their only daughter was “the apple of our eyes and loved by everyone who met her”.
Mom and Dad both talked about their endless pain, their heartache, and the fact that they would never see her dream come true: marry Oliver and start a family.
Judge Rafferty honored the Maclehatton family and told them that there was no penalty to compensate for their loss.
Turning to the fatal accident, Judge Rafferty noted that seconds after McCroor hit the couple, he was seen driving into the speed field on the road.
As he approached the red light, he walked to the sidewalk and kicked the young couple from behind.
The police arrived and noticed a drunk man – Makur, moving away from the scene of the accident. McCurry approached the officer and became aggressive and refused to give details.
After being threatened by Macror, Constable used self-defense spray and a baton and Macror fled after the fight.
The next morning, McCroor turned himself in to the police, but refused to take a breath test.
When asked on January 5, McCurry said he drank whiskey with a relative before the collision and “has no recollection of what happened that night, around 6 p.m.”.
He later pleaded guilty to four counts, including causing the death of Ms. McElhaton due to dangerous transportation and failure to stay at the scene.
McCurry has since told the probation officer that he deeply apologizes for the pain and suffering inflicted on the McCellaton family.
Judge Rafferty said he acknowledged that the regrets expressed were genuine. He also said that after reading several defense reports, it was clear that McCorm’s behavior was in character that day.
However, the judge told McCroar: “On the night of January 3, 2021, your decisions broke the hearts of everyone you met that night: your family, and most importantly, the father of Oliver and Lucy.
“The news I’ve read about you makes me think about it every day.”
Judge Rafferty added: “I only hope this case will make someone think they can drink and drive. That is simply not true.”
He issued a six-year prison sentence, divided equally between imprisonment and testimony, and banned Macri from driving for six years, then told the prison staff, “Please, arrest the accused.”
Responding to the ruling, PSNI Inspector Philip McCalla said he was welcome, but “did not alleviate the pain and loss for the victim’s family”.
She added, “She was a young woman returning from a local store with her partner, but her young life ended tragically that night due to a poor choice of man. Lucy was a beautiful daughter and sister who should have a promising future.
Today’s verdict was to put together the hard work of the Clash Investigation Division, the West Belfast District Police team and our forensic colleagues, with the help of members of the public who assisted in our surveys. Our thoughts remain with Lucy’s family.”
Source: Belfastlive
I’m Wayne Wickman, a professional journalist and author for Today Times Live. My specialty is covering global news and current events, offering readers a unique perspective on the world’s most pressing issues. I’m passionate about storytelling and helping people stay informed on the goings-on of our planet.
