District Judge Amanda Brady convicted 75-year-old Irene Hunter of causing the death of pedestrian Derek Patterson by careless driving at Newtownards Magistrates Court. The incident occurred just before 8pm on 23 November 2023 in The Meadows, Donaghadee. Patterson, a 75-year-old married father of one, died four days later from his injuries.

Hunter, from Walkers Lane in Millisle, denied the charge. Judge Brady ruled that Hunter cut the corner while turning right into The Meadows, striking Patterson. The judge stated Hunter failed to pay sufficient attention to her driving.

Two expert forensic engineers provided evidence during the three-hour hearing earlier that week. A prosecution expert conducted reconstructions and stated the collision resulted from cutting the corner. He noted no impact occurred in a scenario without corner-cutting.

A defence engineer observed 19 vehicles at the junction. Of 11 that did not stop, all cut the corner. Judge Brady referenced Article 180 of the Highway Code, which prohibits cutting corners on right turns.

Hunter knocked on nearby doors after the collision. A local resident performed CPR on Patterson. The vehicle travelled at 12mph at impact. Judge Brady called the case tragic but attributed blame to Hunter's driving.

The court adjourned the case to 19 March for victim impact statements from Patterson's family. Judge Brady imposed an interim driving ban on Hunter.