Accused hid in derelict farmhouse court told

A relative was injured, the motorist fled the scene and was later found hiding, “barely conscious,” in a derelict farmhouse.it was alleged.

Sean Henry McKay (31), of Ballymena Road, required hospital treatment after the crash on February 22 this year, Ballymena Magistrate’s Court heard on Thursday.

He had been driving a Peugeot 405.

He was in court in connection with charges including dangerous driving; driving whilst disqualified; absence of insurance; failing to remain and failing to report an accident.

A prosecutor said the accident happened around 9pm and two passengers in another car were taken to hospital by ambulance including McKay’s relative whose injuries at the time were described as “potentially life-threatening”.

The prosecutor said McKay made off from the scene on foot but he was identified by items including a mobile phone.

Defence barrister Stephen Law said the defendant works in England.

He said it was a “serious” case.

The matter has been adjourned until August for the preparation of a pre-sentence report and McKay was released on his own bail of £750 and is banned from driving in the mean time.