Man remanded in Galway driving case

A man alleged to have injured a pedestrian as he drove at speed at a group of four people near Merlin Park Hospital has been given more time to indicate how he intends pleading.

Published 24th Apr 2026, 06:00 BST Updated 24th Apr 2026, 06:00 BST Galway Courthouse A man alleged to have injured a pedestrian as he drove at speed at a group of four people near Merlin Park Hospital has been given more time to indicate how he intends pleading. Sign up to our Connacht Tribune Today daily newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know you can manage your profile, and explore all of the available newsletters from Connacht Tribune within your account.

Conrad Rayner (29), of Roveagh, Kilcolgan, appeared at Galway District Court on five charges arising from an incident at Merlin Park University Hospital, on October 12, 2025.

Defence barrister, Garry McDonald BL, told the court he had just received CCTV relating to the alleged incident and required further time to consult with his client.

The DPP has directed that the case proceed on indictment to Galway Circuit Court with consent for the accused to be sent forward on a signed plea of guilty, should it arise.

Judge Elizabeth Healy granted the adjournment and remanded the accused on continuing bail to appear again on May 18.

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Conrad Rayner is charged with endangerment contrary to Section 13 of the Non Fatal Offences Against the Person Act, alleging Rayner intentionally or recklessly created a risk of death or substantial harm by driving a black Skoda jeep at speed towards four pedestrians.

The charge alleges this caused three of the pedestrians to take evasive action and caused the fourth to be struck by the vehicle.

He also faces three charges contrary to Section 106 of the Road Traffic Act: failing to offer assistance; failing to stop a vehicle; and failing to keep a vehicle at or near the place of an occurrence. He is charged with dangerous driving, contrary to Section 53 of the Road Traffic Act.

Related topics: Galway District Court Galway CCTV Galway Circuit Court Jeep Driving Skoda Sign up to our Connacht Tribune Today daily newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know you can manage your profile, and explore all of the available newsletters from Connacht Tribune within your account.