Michael Connors, 28, has pleaded guilty to causing the death of Lydia La Polla by dangerous driving and two counts of causing serious injury by dangerous driving. He appeared via videolink at Mold Crown Court on Friday after being extradited from Ireland.
Fatal crash in Wrexham
The collision occurred shortly after 9:30pm on March 24, 2025, between Belgrave Road and Percy Road in Wrexham. Connors was driving a silver Mercedes that collided with a Toyota driven by Mrs La Polla. She died in hospital, while her husband Robert and a teenage passenger suffered serious injuries.
Connors and a passenger fled the scene before emergency services arrived. He was arrested by the Garda in Dublin on March 11, 2026, and subsequently extradited to the UK to face charges by North Wales Police.
Court proceedings and sentencing
District Judge Jones told Connors that the only realistic sentence was immediate custody “of some length”. A sentencing hearing has been set for August 24, 2026. The defendant was warned he faces a prison sentence of significant duration.
Family tribute
In a statement released after her death, Mrs La Polla’s family described her as having a “true heart of gold”. They said: “We are truly devastated and heartbroken following the death of Lydia. She will be missed by family, friends, neighbours and work colleagues. Lydia had a true heart of gold and would always be there for others with her selfless acts of kindness. She was devoted to her family and friends. The night of Monday, March 24, has scarred us for the rest of our lives. Life will never be the same without her.”
