A woman was killed in a hit-and-run after being struck by a driver who was suicidal and trying to take his own life, a court has heard. Raven Adams, 24, died after she was hit by a car in Belfast at around 2:40 am on Thursday, July 16.
Charges and Court Appearance
Francis Donaldson, 22, appeared visibly upset before Belfast magistrates on Friday, facing nine charges including causing death by dangerous driving, causing grievous bodily harm by dangerous driving, and failing to stop at the scene of an accident. A man accompanying Raven was also seriously injured in the incident on York Street. Donaldson spoke only to confirm he understood the charges, and a police officer stated he could connect him to them.
Dashcam and CCTV Evidence
Dashcam footage showed a white Mazda traveling at speed on Limestone Road, running two red lights before reaching York Street and mounting the footpath on the opposite side. Raven, from Tipperary, Ireland, was pronounced dead at the scene. The injured man remains in hospital with injuries to his skull, neck, ribs, shoulder, and knee. The driver was captured on CCTV fleeing on foot.
Mental Health Crisis
The court heard that Donaldson's mother called police after he sent a message to his partner stating he was “suicidal and was going to intentionally crash his car to kill himself.” He was later found by police in the Cavehill area, where he admitted involvement in the crash and asked whether the two people were dead. During police interview, Donaldson provided a statement saying he was the driver, responsible for what happened, and was “having a mental health crisis.” He expressed remorse and condolences, stating it was “never my intention to cause anyone harm except myself.” He added: “I accept I am responsible for what happened. I was experiencing a mental health crisis both at the time and in the immediate aftermath of the collision.”
Bail Denied and Remand
Donaldson was denied bail. The judge noted that a mental health assessment “is going to be necessary for this young man.” He was remanded in custody and is due to reappear in court in four weeks. Samaritans are available day or night, 365 days a year, at 116 123 or samaritans.org.
