THE car that was involved in the collision that resulted in the death of PSNI constable Philippa Reynolds travelled at speeds up to 80 miles per hour, Derry Crown Court has been told.
Shane Frane (26), whose address was given as c/o Maghaberry Prison, and Conor Clarence (24) of Bond's hill in Derry, have admitted a series of charges relating to the fatal collision on February 9 last year.
A prosecution barrister told the court that both men had been drinking heavily and taking drugs and decided to steal a car and drive to Limavady.
They failed to get into the first vehicle they tried and damaged it.
They then broke into a house, stealing keys and a Toyota Land Cruiser.
CCTV showed Frane driving and the vehicle travelling through two sets of traffic lights.
The stolen Toyota struck the armoured vehicle Constable Reynolds was the rear seat passenger in and Frane and Clarence fled the scene.
"Unfortunately the injuries to the constable proved fatal," The barrister said.
Both men were arrested nearby. At interview Clarence said Frane had driven at 80 mph and that he had tried to get him to slow down.
Frane initially denied the offence but then admitted it.
The barrister said the driving was "entirely reckless" and described Frane as "incorrigible - a man who was unwilling to change
his behaviour".
Defence barrister for Frane Eilis McDermott QC referred to reports on her client in which he said: "There is nothing I can say that is going to make it better. I am sorry."
She said "despite appalling behaviour that night which resulted in consequences that can never be put right" Frane was a young man who was trying to change.
She urged the court not to impose an indeterminate custodial sentence.
Defence counsel for Clarence said his client wanted to express "his extreme and profound remorse and regret."
Judge Philip Babington said he wished to offer the court's sympathy to the Reynolds family. He will sentence the pair on February 4.
' n 'CAN NEVER BE PUT RIGHT': Philippa Reynolds was killed in the collision on February 9 last year
* CHARGES: Left, Shane Frane and, right, Conor Clarence at Derry Crown Court yesterday PICtURES: Margaret McLaughlin