Urgent Update: Uncle Sentenced for Fatal Hit and Run in Rathkeale

UPDATE: A shocking hit-and-run case unfolded in Rathkeale, Co Limerick, where 21-year-old Marguerita O’Rourke was killed by her uncle, Danny “Big Dan” O’Donoghue, on December 21, 2024. During a tense sentencing hearing at Limerick Circuit Criminal Court today, the family expressed their devastation, stating their lives “changed forever” after her tragic death.

CCTV footage presented in court revealed the harrowing moment O’Donoghue deliberately drove his van into steel gates behind which O’Rourke was standing. The collision occurred just after 12:03 PM, leading to a chaotic scene as O’Donoghue fled the area. Following the incident, he confronted another family member, Patrick Sheridan, threatening him with a machete.

The court heard that O’Donoghue had been in a volatile state, fueled by alcohol and cocaine, following a domestic dispute. He aggressively approached Sheridan, armed with the machete, and reportedly shouted threats, including, “I’m going to kill you.” Sheridan described the terrifying moment, stating his life “flashed” before him as O’Donoghue wielded the weapon.

Despite the efforts of locals and paramedics who rushed to assist O’Rourke, she succumbed to her injuries just four hours later at University Hospital Limerick. O’Rourke had given birth to her first child just three weeks prior, amplifying the family’s grief.

O’Donoghue’s defense counsel, John Bowman, argued that his client was unaware O’Rourke was behind the gates, labeling the incident a “tragedy of epic proportions.” However, the prosecution emphasized that the act was intentional, dismissing O’Donoghue’s claims of a momentary lapse in judgment.

The emotional toll on the family was palpable as victim impact statements were read in court. O’Rourke’s husband, Denis O’Rourke, condemned the actions of O’Donoghue, stating, “Whatever feud existed between our families, nothing could excuse what he did.” Her father, John Sheridan, expressed the profound and devastating effect of losing his daughter, who he described as a “kind, loving, wonderful” person excited to introduce her newborn to the family for Christmas.

Detective Garda Elaine O’Keeffe testified that tensions between the families had escalated, leading to a culture of violence in Rathkeale. O’Donoghue reportedly fled the scene, screaming threats while driving away, further demonstrating the chaotic aftermath of the incident.

O’Donoghue, who has a history of convictions including dangerous driving and disorderly conduct, handed himself in to authorities two days post-incident. He pleaded guilty to several charges, including dangeous driving causing death and criminal damage. His claim of swerving to avoid his sister was contradicted by clear evidence from CCTV footage, which showed him driving straight into the gates.

Judge Colin Daly remanded O’Donoghue in custody and scheduled a sentencing hearing for January 21, 2026. The community watches closely, as the case highlights ongoing familial tensions and the tragic loss of a young life.

As this case develops, the impact on the Rathkeale community continues to resonate. The family urges the court to impose a significant custodial sentence, emphasizing the necessity of holding O’Donoghue accountable for using his vehicle as a weapon. The heartbreak of Marguerita O’Rourke’s passing serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of violence within families.