Plea ‘Final Decision’ Wait For Doctor Accused Of Dangerous Driving Causing Daughter’s Death

Babak Meshkat was formally charged earlier this year subsequent to a Garda investigation into a collision.

A doctor accused of dangerous driving causing his six-year-old daughter's death in the Midlands last year has been given a final adjournment to consider his plea. 

Babak Meshkat, 45, of An Cimín Mór, Cappagh Road, Galway, was charged earlier this year following a Garda investigation into a crash on the M6 in Co Westmeath on February 8, 2024. 

In March, he was sent forward for trial to the Mullingar Circuit Criminal Court, and subsequently, the defence indicated it would engage an independent expert to analyse his car's crash data, and further disclosure of evidence was ordered. 

Today, he appeared again with the case listed for an arraignment hearing, when defendants say how they intend to plead. 

However, Gerard Groarke BL, defending, said a further adjournment was required to have further input before a final decision is made. 

Prosecutor Cathal Ó Braonáin BL told Judge Kenneth Connolly that there was no objection to a final adjournment. 

Mr Meshkat, who is on bail, did not address the court and was ordered to appear on January 20 next. 

In a previous procedural hearing, the defence said, "There are a couple of areas we wish to investigate". 

His barrister elaborated that this included access to and inspection of the car's driver data from a crash module installed in the vehicle. 

Judge Connolly had heard in June that the defence was seeking to appoint their own forensic collision expert. 

The State had already provided a 120-page report from the garda inspection to Mr Meshkat's legal team. 

Judge Connolly had said it seemed reasonable for the module to be available for inspection by an appropriately qualified person under the correct circumstances and procedures. 

Mr Meshkat's six-year-old daughter, Hana Meshkat, was severely injured in a crash at about 4 pm on the eastbound lane of the motorway between Junction 4, Tyrellspass, and Junction 3, Rochfortbridge on February 8, 2024. 

The child passed away at Children's Health Ireland (CHI) hospital at Temple Street in Dublin, nine days later. 

An investigation file was sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions, which led to the charge being brought in March when he was returned for trial.