Courts / Dublin / Report

Witness thought blaze "was just gurrier setting fire to car"

Date
2018-11-28

Stage
Trial

Primary locality
Tallaght

County
Dublin

Summary

The trial of Warren Nolan, 22, is ongoing at the Central Criminal Court. Nolan, of Rowlagh Park, Clondalkin, has pleaded not guilty to the alleged murder of Alan O'Neill on 27th May 2015 at his home on Kiltalown Road, Tallaght. He has also pleaded not guilty to damaging a car by fire at Belfry Square in Tallaght on the same date. Witness Sonya Glass testified that she observed a light-coloured car revving and later saw it alight near Belfry Manor. She described seeing a person run from the vehicle towards steps, where they were restrained by individuals with torches, whom she identified as gardai. Glass stated she initially believed the incident involved a person setting fire to a car. Detective Garda Con Harrison, who was on patrol nearby, testified that he heard a vehicle approaching rapidly and saw a young man appear at the top of the steps. Harrison stated he shouted 'armed gardai' and lunged towards the individual as he observed the burning car. The matter is currently at the trial stage and has not been finalised. The proceedings are expected to continue for up to two weeks.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Witness thought blaze "was just gurrier setting fire to car". Charges or matters: murdering Alan O'Neill on 27th May 2015 at his home on Kiltalown Road, Tallaght. Procedural stage: trial

When:

27th May 2015 Hearing Or Sentence
2018-11-28 Publication

Why: " Under cross examination by Michael Bowman SC, defending, she explained that she had heard a bang before seeing the car on fire. Defence account reported by CNI