Northern Ireland

Co Derry man to go on trial accused of killing a prison officer by dangerous driving

Robert Whyte leaving Antrim court
Robert Whyte leaving Antrim court Robert Whyte leaving Antrim court

A CO Derry man is to stand trial accused of killing a prison officer by dangerous driving.

Robert Whyte (44) appeared before Antrim Crown Court, where he confirmed his name before entering a not guilty plea.

Whyte from Drumbane Road, Dungiven is accused of causing the death of Jason Thomas Walsh by driving dangerously on the Glenhead Road in Limavady on October 27 2016.

None of the facts were given in yesterday, but it was reported at the time that Mr Walsh (42), who was married with two children, had left his own car with a mechanic and was walking back to the town with his dog when the collision happened.

Prosecuting QC Neil Connor told the court that an expert forensic engineer would be giving evidence at the trial, which is expected to last around a week.

Defence counsel Nicola Rowntree said Mr Whyte’s defence team were "exploring the possibility of instructing our own expert" ahead of a consultation with senior counsel.

Judge Brian Sherard freed Mr Whyte on continuing bail.