A Tyrone man has admitted causing the death of a 55-year-old man by careless driving.
Eamon Patrick O’Kane (29) of Streefe Road, Omagh accepted his Toyota Hilux was on the wrong side of the road when it crashed with an oncoming Volkswagen van at Omagh Road, Ballygawley on December 17, 2015.
Kieran McSorley, also from Omagh, had been a front seat passenger in the van and died at the scene.
A defence barrister at Dungannon Crown Court said his client fully accepted his vehicle was on the wrong side of the road, and no fault whatsoever lay with the driver of the van.
Prosecution counsel advised a trial was no longer required, and confirmed O’Kane has a previously clear record. She also added there was no question of alcohol, speed or using a mobile phone.
The case has been adjourned for the preparation of pre-sentence reports and victim impact statements.
His Honour Judge Neil Rafferty directly addressed the members of Mr McSorley’s family, in relation to impact statements, telling them, “Please feel free to express your emotions and include remembrances or instances. It is your opportunity to put on paper how this tragedy has affected you.”
Releasing O’Kane on continuing bail, the judge warned, “You should not take this as meaning a custodial sentence will not be passed.”
The case will return to court next month.
