Two Charged in Cork Scissor Lift Incident Seek Bail in High Court

UPDATE: Two men charged in a shocking scissor lift incident that caused significant damage to a pedestrian bridge in Cork are set to apply for bail in the High Court. Patrick Costin (18) and Kyle Boyle (31) appeared via video link in Cork District Court earlier today, following events that unfolded on 2 November.

The incident, which drew widespread attention, involved a scissor lift being driven recklessly through crowded streets, leading to a portion of the Mary Elmes Bridge collapsing into the River Lee. Eyewitnesses captured alarming footage as the lift was operated dangerously, endangering pedestrians in busy commercial areas.

Garda Paul McCarthy explained to Judge Mary Dorgan that the scissor lift was reported stolen from St Patrick’s Quay at approximately 8:20 PM. The keys were carelessly left in the vehicle’s compartment, facilitating its theft. “This reckless driving occurred during peak pedestrian traffic,” Garda McCarthy stated, highlighting the potential for serious injury.

Boyle, who reportedly had been drinking heavily for several days, admitted to being intoxicated while operating the vehicle. He acknowledged, “I had been on the beer for four or five days,” after arriving from Britain. Costin, his co-accused, confirmed they both had been drinking while riding the lift.

The dangerous escapade not only damaged the bridge but left pedestrians at risk of falling into the river. Authorities were forced to temporarily seal off the bridge for public safety. Garda McCarthy detailed that Boyle faces multiple charges, including unlawfully taking possession of the scissor lift, damaging public property, and five counts of dangerous driving. Costin is charged with being complicit in the theft and causing damage to a bollard on Oliver Plunkett Street.

During the court proceedings today, Sergeant John Kelleher requested further adjournment for directions from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). Both men were denied bail at the district court level and were remanded in custody until 25 November. They were informed that should they receive bail from the High Court, they must appear in Cork District Court on that date.

This incident has raised serious concerns about public safety in Cork, evoking outrage among residents and officials. As investigations continue, the community watches closely to see how the legal proceedings unfold and what measures will be taken to prevent such reckless behavior in the future.

Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.