Courts / Wicklow / Report

Murder accused asked for bleach and firelighters, ex-girlfriend tells trial

Summary

In the Central Criminal Court, Tina Roche, the ex‑girlfriend of Thomas O'Connor, testified about the night of John O'Brien's murder. Roche said O'Connor, who was 29, called her shortly before midnight on 4 June 2010 and arrived a few minutes later, looking worried and panting. He sat on her sofa with his hands clenched and covered in dry blood. Roche asked what had happened; he claimed he had been attacked and that the blood was from a cut he did not see. He asked for a cloth, a pot scourer, bleach and firelighters, which Roche gave him. She remembered placing the firelighters on his jumper and asking their purpose, to which he replied "Obviously." The trial, presided over by Ms Justice Margaret Heneghan, continues with a jury of twelve. Thomas O'Connor pleaded not guilty.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Murder accused asked for bleach and firelighters, ex-girlfriend tells trial. Charges or matters: murdering John O'Brien, who was from Burnaby Lawns in Greystones on 4th June 2010; murdering Mr O'Brien, but guilty to his manslaughter at Farrankelly Road, Delgany, Co Wicklow. Procedural stage: trial

When:

• 4th June 2010 Hearing Or Sentence
• 2017-02-22 Publication

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Trial Violent Crime

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Read the original CNI report