Courts / Dublin / Report

Murder trial jury shown heavily bloodstained coat

Summary

In the Dublin murder trial, the jury was shown a heavily bloodstained coat linked to the case. Thomas Heinrich, 22, was stabbed to death on St Anthony's Road, Rialto, on 1 December 2012, while Robert Rinker survived. Wesley Kelly, 20, pleaded not guilty to murder and assault causing harm. A 17‑year‑old defendant also denied both charges. Prosecutor Tara Burns argued the accused acted under joint enterprise. Forensic evidence presented by Sandra McGrath included DNA from knives, a bread knife, ETO jeans, a Duffer hooded top, a Marc O'Polo coat, and a Tommy Hilfiger jacket. DNA from the coat matched Heinrich; DNA from the jacket matched Rinker and the 17‑year‑old. Kelly was arrested at Kilmainham Garda Station after voluntarily presenting himself, claiming self‑defence. The trial remains ongoing.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Murder trial jury shown heavily bloodstained coat. Charges or matters: murdering Mr Heinrich and to assault causing harm to Mr Rinker. Procedural stage: trial

When:

• December 1, 2012 Incident
• 2014-05-19 Publication

Why: A 17-year-old, who cannot be named because of his age, also denies both charges. CNI source report

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Trial Violent Crime

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Read the original CNI report