Courts / Dublin / Report

"Devastating damage" caused by gas explosion during alleged suicide bid

Date
2019-04-02

Stage
Trial

Primary locality
Dublin

County
Dublin

Summary

In a Dublin Circuit Criminal Court trial, 63‑year‑old Terence Maguire pleaded not guilty to charges of intentionally or recklessly creating a substantial risk of death or serious harm by causing a gas explosion during an alleged suicide attempt on June 1, 2014. Maguire allegedly cut through the inlet pipe of his domestic gas meter, placed towels under doors to trap gas, put a warning sign up, took sleeping tablets, and fell asleep. He later opened the back door, lit a cigarette, and an explosion occurred, demolishing his home and damaging neighbouring houses and cars. Witnesses described the blast as "utter devastation," with walls blown out, ceilings collapsed, and a mushroom cloud seen by a nearby driver. The trial, presided over by Judge Elma Sheahan, continues before a jury.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: "Devastating damage" caused by gas explosion during alleged suicide bid. Charges or matters: intentionally or recklessly engaging in conduct which created a substantial risk of death or serious harm to another at Sullivan Street, Dublin on June 1, 2014. Procedural stage: trial

When:

June 1, 2014 Hearing Or Sentence
2019-04-02 Publication

Why: He said he wasn't happy about this because "we were after going into an unsafe area" but he continued to clear rubble and helped get Mr Maguire out. CNI source report

Case subjects

Terence Maguire

Defendant

Charges: intentionally or recklessly engaging in conduct which created a substantial risk of death or serious harm to another at Sullivan Street, Dublin on June 1, 2014 (Alleged Or Contested)

Plea: Not guilty