Seamus Conlon: Man admits to driving stolen car that killed mourner

A 33-year old man has admitted being the driver of a stolen car that knocked down and killed a pensioner outside a cemetery in 2019.

Michael Loughran admitted stealing the car and causing the death of Seamus Conlon, 70, outside the City Cemetery.

The great-grandfather had just attended a funeral when the collision occurred in the Whiterock Road.

Mr Conlon's daughter expressed relief at the plea but said the family had been traumatised by his untimely death.

Loughran appeared at Belfast Crown Court via videolink on Tuesday for a remote hearing, where he pleaded guilty to six offences dating back to 3 August last year.

It was attended remotely by members of the Conlon family, who heard Loughran's barrister apologise on behalf of his client "for the consequences of his actions and the death of their loved one".

Loughran - whose address was given as Maghaberry Prison - spoke to confirm his name and date of birth, and was then addressed by the clerk of the court, who put eight charges to him.

He pleaded guilty to six offences, including causing Mr Conlon's death by dangerous driving and driving while unfit through drink or drugs.

He denied a further two charges - driving with no insurance and possessing the Class A drug cocaine - but Judge Geoffrey Miller QC was told this may not require a trial and should not stand in the way of sentencing.

Crown barrister David Russell asked that the court view footage from the day of the incident.

"The fatal collision is not captured in any footage, but the earlier driving is, on two occasions," he said.

"The court will get a better feel for the accused's condition and attitude."

Defence barrister Gavan Duffy said he had been asked by Loughran to "express his deep regret" to the Conlon family.

No date was set for sentencing but Judge Miller expressed the hope it would take place at the end of September or early October.

Loughran was remanded back into custody.

Speaking after Loughran's admission Mr Conlon's daughter, Geraldine Conlon, said: "Our lives will never be the same again."

"We're all angry at having to sit and listen to it at home. It's not the same as attending court. But we're relieved that he admitted it," said Ms Conlon.

When asked about Loughran's apology, she said: "No. We're not accepting it."

"We got a bit of justice today, but it will never bring my Daddy back. The way he was taken from us was just horrendous."

The Conlon family have requested that some of them are allowed to physically attend court for sentencing.