Courts / Sligo / Report

Musician may have been too drunk to defend himself, murder trial hears

Summary

At the Central Criminal Court, the Deputy State Pathologist gave evidence in the murder trial of a 30-year-old Sligo man accused of fatally stabbing a musician in his home. Dr Michael Curtis testified that the deceased, Martin Kivlehan, aged 59, had consumed alcohol at potentially fatal levels—approximately eight times the legal drink-driving limit—and bore no defensive injuries. The pathologist identified two stab wounds to the neck, either of which could have proved fatal independently. He stated it was a distinct possibility the victim was incapacitated by intoxication and unable to defend himself. Keith Brady of Cartron Estate has pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter in connection with Mr Kivlehan's death on August 2nd or 3rd, 2015 at New Apartments, Holborn Street. The plea was rejected and Brady faces trial. Evidence regarding CCTV footage and forensic findings was also presented. The trial continues before Justice Paul McDermott and jury.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Musician may have been too drunk to defend himself, murder trial hears. Charges or matters: murder but guilty to the manslaughter of Mr Kivlehan (59) at New Apartments, Holborn St, Sligo on August 2/3 2015. Procedural stage: trial

When:

• August 2 Hearing Or Sentence
• Sunday August 2 Other
• August 3 Other
• 2017-11-15 Publication

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Trial Violent Crime

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Read the original CNI report