Gardaí investigating a hit and run which killed a married couple in Dublin on St Stephen’s Day are carrying out a forensic examination of a high-powered car believed to have been involved.
The driver of the car, a man aged in his 40s, left the scene of the collision in Blanchardstown after hitting Georgina Hogg Moore (39) and her husband Anthony “Anto” Hogg (40) as the couple crossed the road.
He later handed himself in to gardaí and is understood to be co-operating with the investigation. The man, who is from the local area and lived near the deceased couple, remained in Garda custody on Friday evening.
Gardaí have also seized his car, an Audi, and are subjecting it to a detailed examination as they try to piece together a timeline of the collision.
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Gardaí are investigating whether the driver of the car broke a red light immediately before the incident. Sources said there was currently nothing to suggest the victims had been deliberately targeted. The force is understood to be following a definite line of inquiry.
Locals said on Friday motorists frequently break the red light at the crossing, which is located beside a path which leads into the Blanchardstown Centre. Mourners laid bouquets of flowers by the scene throughout Friday.
The man is being questioned on suspicion of dangerous driving causing death. He is being held under section four of the Criminal Justice Act, 1984, and can be held for up to 24 hours plus rest periods.
The deceased couple were on their way to their home in nearby Whitestown, Dublin 15, which they shared with their two teenage children, when they were struck by a car at 5.45pm.
Ms Hogg Moore was pronounced dead at the scene. Mr Hogg was taken for treatment to Connolly Memorial Hospital where he died of his injuries several hours later.
Two other pedestrians were present at the time but they did not sustain injuries.
Gardaí have gathered CCTV footage from the area. Sources said the investigation was making good progress.
“A technical examination of the scene has been completed by Garda forensic collision investigators and the road has now reopened,” An Garda Síochána said in a statement on Friday.
Anyone who may have witnessed the collision is asked to come forward. Gardaí are keen to speak to people who were in the vicinity of Blanchardstown Road North between 5pm and 6pm, especially those who have camera footage that could assist the investigation.
“Anyone with information is asked to contact Blanchardstown Garda station at 01 666 7000, the Garda confidential line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda station.
A vigil took place on Friday evening near the scene of the collision.
Many people have been paying tribute online to the couple, including Georgina Hogg Moore’s sister Katie Moore.
“Rest easy sis and bro. I’ll always mind your babies. Absolutely heartbroken.”
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