Courts / Limerick / Report

Unarmed man stabbed 23 times, prosecution tell jury

Summary

In a Central Criminal Court trial, prosecutors presented evidence that Ger Hogan (34) and Dylan Hayes (22) stabbed Shane Murphy (26) 23 times at his girlfriend's house in Pallasgreen on 30 April 2015. Witnesses, including Sharon Kelly, the deceased's partner, testified that both men attacked Murphy, with Hogan striking him with an ash tray and the pair later stabbing him again while Kelly tried to protect her boyfriend. Pathologist Dr Linda Mulligan described 23 stab wounds and numerous bruises, indicating a frenzied assault. Prosecutor Paul Burns argued the evidence proved guilt, while defense counsel for Hayes, Mark Nicholas, claimed he admitted the killing but should be found guilty of manslaughter due to loss of self‑control, citing provocation and Hayes's background. Defense counsel for Hogan, Michael Bowman, challenged the reliability of Kelly's testimony and the scientific evidence linking Hogan to the wounds, urging an acquittal. The unnamed man pleaded not guilty.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Unarmed man stabbed 23 times, prosecution tell jury. Charges or matters: the murder of Shane Murphy at The Grove, Pallasgreen, Co Limerick on April 30, 2015. Procedural stage: trial

When:

• April 30, 2015 Other
• 2017-05-12 Publication

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Trial Violent Crime

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Read the original CNI report