Courts / Mayo / Report

Suggestion that infant put wad of tissue into mouth "fanciful", forensic pathologist tells murder trial

Date
2018-03-14

Stage
Trial

Primary locality
Ballyhaunis

County
Mayo

Summary

A forensic pathologist has testified at the Central Criminal Court that a tear inside a six-month-old child's throat would typically result from punches, blows, or severe struggle. Dr Roger Malcolmson described as "fanciful" the defence suggestion that the infant could have caused his own death by swallowing tissue. John Tighe, aged 40, from Lavallyroe, Ballyhaunis, County Mayo, has pleaded not guilty to the murder of six-month-old Joshua Sussbier Tighe on June 1, 2013, at his home. Dr Malcolmson reviewed pathology findings and told prosecution counsel Paul Murray SC that it was not credible a six-month-old could ingest the two pieces of tissue found in the child's throat. He stated the injury was "highly suspicious" of inflicted trauma. Under cross-examination by defence counsel Mícheál P O'Higgins, Dr Malcolmson agreed the injury could have resulted from efforts to remove a blockage. Paediatrician Dr Hilary Stokes earlier testified that choking is the leading accidental cause of death in infants under one year. The trial continues before Justice Patrick McCarthy and a jury.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Suggestion that infant put wad of tissue into mouth "fanciful", forensic pathologist tells murder trial. Charges or matters: murdering six-month-old Joshua Sussbier Tighe at his home on June 1, 2013. Procedural stage: trial

When: