A 91-year-old man has been ordered to stand trial accused of causing the death of a schoolgirl in Co Antrim.
Scarlett Rossborough (8) was knocked down and killed while walking with a group of children along High Street in Carrickfergus on August 9 2023.
Appearing via video-link from his home for a preliminary enquiry into the case was John Noble Lindsay of Prince Andrew Way, Carrickfergus.
Watching proceedings from the public gallery at Belfast Magistrates’ Court were family and friends of the young girl.
The defendant is charged that he caused the death of Scarlett Rossborough by driving dangerously on High Street, Carrickfergus.
Asked by the court clerk if he understood the charge, he said: ”I do, Your Worship”.
He declined to say anything in answer to the charge. He further declined to call any evidence or tender any witnesses on his behalf.
A prosecution lawyer told the hearing that based on the papers before him he believed the defendant had a prima facie case to answer.
Defence barrister Stephen Molloy told the court the defendant was appearing via video-link from his home as he is recovering from an operation on his stomach performed within the past two weeks.
"I am aware that members of the deceased's family are present in court. We are very eager for this case to proceed and I know the family wish the case to move as quickly as possible as well,'' said Mr Molloy.
District Judge Keown said: “I am satisfied there is a case to answer. The case will be returned to Belfast Crown Court for arraignment hearing on a date to be fixed”.
Mr Lindsay was released on his own bail of £500, but Judge Keown said the defendant did not have to sign for his bail.
Legal aid was refused, but the judge said a fresh application could be made once the case is before Belfast Crown Court.