A  FERMANAGH man has been returned for trial accused of causing the death of a motorcyclist almost four years ago, in what was described at the time as a suspected hit-and-run incident.

Appearing for a committal hearing was Connor McHugh (36) from Brollagh Road, Belleek, who is accused of causing the death of Willis Vogel by driving dangerously.

The fatal accident occurred on May 31, 2020 at Meenagh Road, Ederney.

With the victim’s family in attendance for the short hearing a prosecuting lawyer told Omagh Magistrates Court there is a case to answer, which was agreed by Deputy District Judge Peter Prenter.

McHugh spoke only to confirm his identity and that he understood the charge against him.

He declined to call witnesses or give evidence on his own behalf at this stage in proceedings.

Judge Prenter remanded him on £500 bail to appear for arraignment at Dungannon Crown Court sitting Newry on a date to be fixed next month.

It is unclear why the case took almost four years to reach court.

Mr Vogel, who was from Limavady, was riding a Kawasaki motorcycle when he was struck by a black jeep which failed to stop at the scene.

He sustained very serious injuries and passed away aged 21.

At the time police confirmed they were following “a definite line of enquiry” and issued an appeal for anyone approached to carry out repairs on a black jeep to come forward.

A vehicle matching this was later discovered in Donegal and An Garda Siochana removed it from an address before handing it over to PSNI.

A male was later arrested on suspicion of causing Mr Vogel’s death by dangerous driving and released after questioning.