Inishowen crash trial expected to get underway today

The trial of an Inishowen man charged with eight counts of dangerous driving causing death is expected to begin today.
24-year-old Shaun Kelly will appear before Judge John O’Hagan at Letterkenny Circuit Court to answer charges arising out of Irelands worst ever road accident outside Clonmany in July 2010.
Seven of Mr Kelly’s friends were killed following the crash as well as a 66-year-old man from the area.
Defence barrister Peter Nolan told a court sitting last week that the trial could last a full week and perhaps go into a second week.
As well as emergency personnel who attended the scene of the crash, expert witnesses including engineers and forensic specialists are expected to be called.
Last week state barrister, Ms Patricia McLoughlin asked for the court to provide a German translator for one of her specialist witnesses.
A specific exhibits area has also been set aside within the courtroom for the case.
Those who died in the crash were 66-year-old Hugh Friel, of Urris, Clonmany; 22-year-old Eamon McDaid, of Ballymagan, Buncrana; 21-year-old Mark McLaughlin, of Ballinahone, Fahan; 19-year-old Paul Doherty, of Ardagh, Ballyliffin; 19-year-old Ciaran Sweeney, of Ballyliffin; 21-year-old PJ McLaughlin, of Rockstown, Burnfoot; 23-year-old James McEleney, of Meenaduff, Clonmany; and 21-year-old Damien McLaughlin of Umricam, Buncrana.