Courts / Wicklow / Report

Deceased's skull appeared "deformed", paramedics tell trial

Summary

In the Wicklow murder trial, Thomas O'Connor (29) is charged with killing John O'Brien (22) on 4 June 2010. Paramedic Francoise Coussay testified that O'Brien was found semi‑prone on his right side, without pulse, and that his skull appeared deformed. Advanced paramedic Claire McCann noted blood‑covered head and face, fractures to the left ear, possible brain matter in hair, and a flat cardiac monitor line. Dr Diane Daly examined a heavily blood‑stained rock from the scene and clothes from O'Brien's house, finding DNA from the deceased on the rock, door handles, and tracksuit bottoms, while the tracksuit's waistband matched O'Connor's DNA. The trial is proceeding before Ms Justice Margaret Heneghan and a twelve‑person jury.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Deceased's skull appeared "deformed", paramedics tell trial. Charges or matters: murdering John O'Brien, who was from Burnaby Lawns in Greystones on 4th June 2010; murder, but guilty to the 22-year-old's manslaughter at Farrankelly Road, Delgany, Co Wicklow. Procedural stage: trial

When:

• 4th June 2010 Hearing Or Sentence
• 2017-02-28 Publication

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Trial Violent Crime

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Read the original CNI report