A young mother, Marguerita "Maggie" Sheridan, tragically lost her life after what is being investigated as a hit-and-run incident outside her home in Rathkeale, County Limerick. The 21-year-old, who had recently welcomed her son just three weeks prior, sustained injuries from the incident and was transported to University Hospital Limerick, where she later died.
The police have taken swift action, announcing on Monday the arrest of Danny O'Donoghue, aged 42, who faced multiple charges related to Sheridan's death. Following the incident on Saturday, December 21, Gardaí stated they had detained O'Donoghue under the Criminal Justice Act, 1984. He was then charged with five separate offenses and appeared before Limerick District Court on Christmas Eve.
During the hearing, prosecution detail revealed O'Donoghue has been implicated with dangerous driving causing the death of Sheridan. The collision occurred at Bank Place, Well Lane, Rathkeale, where it is alleged O'Donoghue struck the gates she was nearby before fleeing the scene.
Alongside the grave charge of causing death, O'Donoghue faces accusations of causing criminal damage to the gates and making threats against Patrick Sheridan, who is associated with the case and allegedly received serious threats from the accused. O'Donoghue was also charged with producing a machete during the threatening incident, highlighting the severity of the situation.
Detective Garda Elaine O’Keeffe confirmed she had arrested Mr. O’Donoghue shortly before the court session began. It was noted during the proceedings he made no reply to any of the charges brought against him. Also, Gardaí objected to any bail application, signaling the seriousness of the situation and the potential flight risk of the accused.
Despite the tragic circumstances, the courtroom proceedings on the day highlighted the immediate concerns the community has, as the accused’s legal representative, Michael O’Donnell, did not apply for bail. Following the hearing, Judge Alec Gabbett remanded O'Donoghue to Limerick Prison, with instructions to appear via video link again on December 27.
A vigil was held on Tuesday for Marguerita Sheridan at the local abbey grounds, attended by grieving family and friends, underlining the community’s sorrow over her untimely death. The loss resonates particularly during the festive season, marking what should be joyful occasions marred by such violence and tragedy.
Authorities are taking the necessary steps to investigate the crash thoroughly, hoping to provide clarity for Sheridan's family and the local community. The investigation continues, focusing on the circumstances leading up to and following the incident.
With emotions running high and many unanswered questions remaining, the case of Marguerita Sheridan is drawing significant attention, reflecting widespread grief and concern throughout Rathkeale and beyond. The community remains vigilant, seeking justice for the young mother whose life was tragically cut short and grappling with the loss of potential futures.
