Courts / Ireland / Report

Father of four died of single stab wound to chest, pathologist tells trial

Date
2018-10-10
Stage
Trial

Summary

In the Central Criminal Court trial of Paul Keating, Chief State Pathologist Professor Marie Cassidy testified that Mark Richardson, aged 47, died from a single stab wound to his right upper chest. The wound, 6 cm below the collarbone and 8 cm from the midline, entered the ribcage between the third and fourth ribs, pierced the right lung, and severed the main pulmonary artery, causing rapid blood loss. No other significant injuries were found except a 3.5 cm incised wound on the right side of the neck and three fingernail scratches. Toxicology revealed alcohol consumption and traces of a tranquilliser. Richardson was in cardiac arrest upon arrival at the hospital; despite resuscitation attempts, he was pronounced dead at 8:50 pm, an hour after the stabbing. The trial continues before Mr Justice Robert Eagar and a jury. Paul Keating pleaded not guilty.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Father of four died of single stab wound to chest, pathologist tells trial. Charges or matters: murder but guilty to the manslaughter of his "lifelong friend" Mark Richardson (47) on March 16, 2017. Procedural stage: trial

When:

Case subjects

Paul Keating

Defendant

Charges: murder but guilty to the manslaughter of his "lifelong friend" Mark Richardson (47) on March 16, 2017 (Alleged Or Contested)

Plea: Not guilty

Professor Marie Cassidy

Defendant

Charges: murder but guilty to the manslaughter of his "lifelong friend" Mark Richardson (47) on March 16, 2017 (Alleged Or Contested)

Places mentioned

Court Venue
  • Central Criminal Court
Residence
  • Harmonstown Road
Address Area
  • Harmonstown Road

Topics

Stage Trial

Read the original CNI report

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