Courts / Limerick / Report

Murder accused told detectives he attacked deceased with hatchet

Summary

The trial of Seán Flanagan, Paul Colbert, and Ian Flanagan continues before the Central Criminal Court, where all three accused have pleaded not guilty. Seán Flanagan and his uncle, Paul Colbert, are charged with the murder of Gerard McMahon, who was stabbed to death in Limerick City in January 2012. Ian Flanagan faces two counts of assisting an offender, allegedly for removing a CCTV recorder. Evidence presented by Detective Garda Pádraig O'Dwyer details a voluntary statement made by Paul Colbert, in which he alleged he attacked the deceased with a hatchet while Seán Flanagan stabbed him. Colbert claimed he acted out of fear after his house was previously shot at and stated he was later warned by Seán Flanagan to deny involvement. He identified himself and Seán Flanagan on CCTV footage and admitted they intended to seriously hurt the victim. The court heard that Colbert initially gave different accounts before confessing, citing fear of his nephews. The matter is currently at the trial stage, with no findings, sentences, or finalisations recorded. The proceedings are ongoing before Mr Justice Garrett Sheehan and a jury.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Murder accused told detectives he attacked deceased with hatchet. Charges or matters: murdering him; two counts of assisting an offender. Procedural stage: trial

When:

• January 18, 2012 Incident
• 2013-11-18 Publication

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Trial Violent Crime

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Read the original CNI report