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Driver 'was speeding' when he hit top Northern Irish rider

Belfast man was too close to riders, court told

A top Northern Ireland cyclist who veered to avoid a dog was killed by a speeding motorist, a court in Antrim has heard.

Commonwealth Games medallist David McCall was taking part in a road race in Co Antrim in August 2008 when he was hit by Belfast man Michael Gerard Groome.

Groome has denied causing death by dangerous driving. According to the Belfast Telegraph, it is claimed he was in a hurry to catch a flight from Belfast International Airport.

A lawyer told a jury at Antrim Crown Court that after a small black dog ran out onto the Belfast Road in front of 46-year-old Mr McCall, he deviated slightly to his right and was struck by the overtaking Peugeot.

The bike was broken in two and Mr McCall, from Lisburn, was thrown into the air. The court heard that Groome initially didn’t stop but a short time later returned to the scene of the crash.

The prosecution said Groome told police he was driving at between 40 and 45 miles an hour, but he said eye-witnesses would testify that he overtook them at higher speeds. He added that Groome was was driving too fast and too close to cyclists taking part in the race.

The case continues.

 

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3 comments

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LondonCalling | 14 years ago
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Unfortunately, mrchrispy might be right.

But let's hope that he's wrong.

Hit and run should mean LIFE DRIVING BAN, regardless of outcome. It shows complete disregard and should be punished accordingly.

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mrchrispy | 14 years ago
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i'll put money on 3 points and a 500 quid fine!

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OldRidgeback | 14 years ago
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The driver didn't even stop - says it all.

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