Court proceedings against former National Party MP Doug Moppett which related to his involvement in a fatal car accident have officially ended following the defendant's recent death.
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The proceedings concluded in Coonamble Local Court on Wednesday - nearly five years after the accident in which a 38-year-old woman died.
Police prosecutor Sergeant Michael Fawcett told Magistrate Bryan Wilson Mr Moppett had died, and the magistrate formally discontinued the matters.
Mr Moppett had faced three charges including negligent driving causing death, cause grievous bodily harm by a negligent act and failing to give way.
The charges related to the August 1997 car crash at crossroads on the Coonamble Warren Road, about 20 kilometres from Gulargambone.
Sydney woman Beth Fleming died in the crash.
Mr Moppett was originally charged with dangerous driving causing death, however he was found not guilty following a three-day trial in the Coonamble District Court trial in June 2000.
The court heard a vehicle being driven by Mr Moppett ploughed into the side of a Ford Falcon sedan containing Department of Veteran Affairs personnel travelling in the area on business.
Mr Moppett testified he was unable to recall what happened immediately before the smash, and only regained consciousness when he was woken by a man at the crash scene.
After his acquittal the long-serving NSW legislative council member thanked the jury and said the verdict relieved his family.
"I intend to try and pick up my life to what it was before the accident," he commented.
He announced his resignation from parliament before the trial, however after being found not guilty returned to politics.
Just weeks ago Mr Moppett announced his retirement from parliament due to health reasons.
He died shortly after.
