A court in Ireland has heard details in the death of a bride-to-be who was killed by a van driver just hours after shopping for her wedding dress.
Bride-To-Be Killed In Road Incident
Laura Connolly, 34, died on July 11, 2021, after she was struck by a van near Lifford, according to reports presented in court.
Connolly had recently been out with friends before the incident happened in the early morning hours.
Driver Pleads Guilty
During proceedings at Letterkenny Circuit Court, Sean Connaughton pleaded guilty to dangerous driving causing death.
He also faced charges related to driving without insurance, driving without a valid license, and failing to remain at the scene.
Witnesses Describe Incident
Witnesses told the court Connolly had been walking with friends before she reportedly lay down in the roadway.
One friend testified that she warned Connolly after noticing a van approaching at high speed, but the vehicle did not stop in time and drove away after the collision.
Emergency responders attempted CPR, but Connolly was pronounced dead at the scene from blunt force injuries.
DNA Linked Van To Crash
Authorities said Connaughton later turned himself in to police but initially denied involvement.
Investigators later found DNA evidence on the van that matched Connolly, linking the vehicle to the fatal crash.
In court, Connaughton apologized to Connolly’s family and admitted that if he had followed his driving ban, she would still be alive.
