Courts / Dublin / Report

Murder accused told gardai he acted in self-defence

Summary

In the murder trial of Donal Colgan, 65, the accused claimed self‑defence after being attacked by two men. Colgan was arrested early on 19 August 2014 and, while in a Garda car, told Sgt Chris Cahill that he was defending himself. Garda Eoin Treacy and witness Gary Kinlan confirmed that Colgan used a knife to stab 45‑year‑old David Sheridan outside Luigi's chip shop on North Strand Road on 17/18 August 2014. Colgan denied knowing Sheridan or being at Luigi's that night, and said he had been advised by his solicitor not to speak. Teresa Marsella, a Luigi's employee, observed a fight between Colgan and Sheridan, then saw Colgan return with a knife and stab Sheridan. Detective Sergeant Mark Watters found blood‑stained clothing and a block of knives at Colgan's home; forensic analysis matched the blood to Sheridan. The case is set to continue before Justice Carmel Stewart and a jury. Donal Colgan pleaded not guilty.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Murder accused told gardai he acted in self-defence. Charges or matters: the murder of 45-year-old David Sheridan outside Luigi's chip shop on the Capital's North Strand Road on August 17/18 2014. Procedural stage: trial

When:

• August 17 Incident
• August 19 Incident
• August 19, 2014 Incident
• 2016-11-17 Publication

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Trial Violent Crime

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Read the original CNI report