Courts / Dublin / Report

Closing speeches expected in trial of man accused of cross-dressing gun murder

Date
2017-07-05

Stage
Trial

Primary locality
Blanchardstown

County
Dublin

Summary

In the Central Criminal Court, the trial of Christopher McDonald, 34, accused of a machine‑gun murder while dressed as a woman, is proceeding with the jury set to hear closing speeches. McDonald, from Dublin's East Wall, pleaded not guilty to the killing of 36‑year‑old Keith Walker in the car park of the Blanchardstown Pigeon Racing Club on 12 June 2015. The court heard limited evidence today, including testimony from Superintendent Colm Murphy, who was cross‑examined by Bernard Condon SC. Murphy confirmed that a doctor had examined McDonald after his arrest and noted the loss of his front two upper teeth, and that the arrest received significant media attention. Garda Sean Kelly testified that DNA and firearms residue samples were taken from McDonald at Blanchardstown Garda Station, though no firearms residue was found on him. DNA was found on a glove and wig that gardaí say were found next to the gun used in the attack.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Closing speeches expected in trial of man accused of cross-dressing gun murder. Charges or matters: the murder of 36-year-old Keith Walker in the car park of the Blanchardstown Pigeon Racing Club on Shelerin Road, Clonsilla on June 12, 2015. Procedural stage: trial

When:

June 12, 2015 Hearing Or Sentence
2017-07-05 Publication

Case subjects

Christopher McDonald

Accused

Charges: the murder of 36-year-old Keith Walker in the car park of the Blanchardstown Pigeon Racing Club on Shelerin Road, Clonsilla on June 12, 2015 (Alleged Or Contested)

Plea: Not guilty