Teen driver apologises after priest fatally struck by car

A teenage driver charged with running down a Sydney priest has apologised after facing court for the first time.

Police allege 18-year-old Patar Radinovic was behind the wheel of a red Toyota Corolla which veered off Sandringham Drive at Cecil Hills last month and struck Father Peter Neville.

The 80-year-old priest was walking along the footpath having visited some friends.

Father Neville suffered serious injuries and died on the way to hospital.

Mr Radinovic faced Liverpool Court today charged with dangerous driving occasioning death and negligent driving occasioning death.

"I just want to apologise to the Neville family for what I've done," Mr Radinovic said. 

"I wish I took my own life but I ended up taking his. 

"Unfortunately what happened, happened.

"It was a car accident. What more can I say?"

Father Jenkins was a well-respected member of the community having helped set up the Mary Immaculate Parish at Bossley Park.

Mr Radinovic's bail was continued today.

The case will be back before Campbelltown Court on April 11