A quad bike and van collision has resulted in life-altering injuries for a father and his eight-year-old daughter, who both required amputations, a court has heard. The incident occurred on Edergole Road near Omagh on Saturday, July 25.
Brannon Mullan, 36, of Shanmullagh Park, Draperstown, Northern Ireland, appeared at Enniskillen Magistrates' Court on Monday. He faces charges including causing grievous bodily injury by dangerous driving, perverting the course of justice, driving after consuming excess alcohol, and having an incorrect registration mark.
Mullan was refused bail. A police officer told the court that both victims sustained severe lower limb injuries. The daughter had her leg amputated below the knee, and her father's foot was amputated below the ankle. Police found the pair lying in the road following the crash, with a white van and a quad bike discovered at the scene.
Authorities allege that Mullan attempted to set fire to his van shortly after the crash, and he was the only individual with access to the vehicle. The prosecution objected to bail, citing Mullan's alleged actions post-incident and the fact that he was already on bail for a separate Crown court case at the time of the collision. A detective also noted that Mullan had a limited criminal record.
Mullan's defense solicitor described the event as a "tragic accident" and stated that his client did not attempt to flee the scene and admitted to driving the vehicle in an interview. The defense urged the court to grant bail under strict conditions.
District Judge Alana McSorley denied bail, stating Mullan had breached his existing bail by consuming alcohol and then driving. "Your actions post-incident cause me concern and you face a charge of perverting the course of justice," the judge said. "I'm not satisfied risks can be managed and bail is refused."
Mullan, who is reportedly a new father and sole provider for his family, was remanded in custody and is scheduled to appear at Omagh Magistrates Court via video link on August 18. Chief Inspector McConville of the Police Service of Northern Ireland confirmed the collision details and the arrest of the van driver, stating that investigations were ongoing.