Christopher Cockell has appeared at Leeds Magistrates Court charged with causing the deaths of six people, including two young sisters, in a crash on the A61 more than two years ago.
The 50-year-old, of Gresford Close, Woolley Grange, faces six counts of dangerous driving and one count of failing to stop after a road accident. He was released on unconditional bail and is due to appear at Leeds Crown Court on 1 December.
Victims of the July 2024 collision
Four members of the same family, including two children, and a married couple on a motorcycle died in the crash near the village of Mapplewell, Barnsley, in July 2024. Shane Roller, 33, his partner Shannen Morgan, 30, and their daughters, Rubie and Lillie Morgan-Roller, aged nine and four, died when their Ford Focus car collided with the motorbike.
Mr Roller and Ms Morgan had a third daughter who was not in the car. The married couple on the BMW S100 XR motorbike, Christopher Barton, 56, and Janine Barton, 48, also died in the crash.
Court appearance and next steps
During the brief hearing on Wednesday, Mr Cockell spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth and address. He was not asked to enter pleas, and members of the victims' families were in court for the appearance.
The court heard the case would have to be sent to the crown court for it to be dealt with. District Judge Kitson said: "Mr Cockell...All of these matters are now sent to the Leeds Crown Court. The date of the hearing is first of December." Mr Cockell was released on unconditional bail.
