Courts / Cavan / Report
Key witness tells jury he's 'terrified' of double murder accused Ruth Lawrence
Summary
A key witness has told the Central Criminal Court that he feared Ruth Lawrence, who is accused of murdering two men in April or May 2014. The 45-year-old from Mountnugent in Co Meath has pleaded not guilty to killing Anthony Keegan and Eoin O'Connor. Jason Symes gave evidence via video-link, stating he witnessed Lawrence carrying a firearm on multiple occasions. He recalled that on Good Friday 2014, Lawrence and her boyfriend Neville van der Westhuizen borrowed his daughter's car while he waited in Dublin. Upon their return to Patrick's Cottage in Meath, Symes said the couple removed numerous bags from the vehicle. He testified that he later heard Lawrence mention a headlock and a twist in connection with the deceased men. Symes said he fled Ireland fearing for his family's safety but returned to provide testimony. The trial continues before Justice Tony Hunt and a jury.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: Key witness tells jury he's 'terrified' of double murder accused Ruth Lawrence. Charges or matters: murdering Anthony Keegan (33) and Eoin O'Connor (32) at an unknown location within the State on a date between April 22, 2014 and May 26, 2014, both dates inclusive. Procedural stage: trial
When:
- April 22, 2014 Other
- May 26, 2014 Other
- April 18 2014 Other
- Monday April 21 Hearing Or Sentence
- April 23, 2014 Incident
- April 24 Other
- 2025-10-23 Publication
Why: "I disagree because she is going to say that," replied Mr Symes. CNI source report
Case subjects
Accused
Charges: murdering Anthony Keegan (33) and Eoin O'Connor (32) at an unknown location within the State on a date between April 22, 2014 and May 26, 2014, both dates inclusive (Alleged Or Contested)
Plea: Not guilty
Places mentioned
- O'Connell Street
- Navan Road
Topics
Firearms Stage Trial Violent Crime
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