Courts / Wicklow / Report

Gunman fired nine times into gym class, boxing club murder trial hears

Summary

In a murder trial at the Central Criminal Court, Gerard Cervi, aged 34, is accused of firing nine shots from a semi‑automatic pistol inside Bray Boxing Club on 5 June 2018. The shooting occurred during a 12‑person exercise class organised by trainer Peter Taylor. The prosecution alleges that Cervi killed 50‑year‑old Bobby Messett and attempted to murder trainer Peter Taylor and participant Ian Britton, who were injured. A prosecution barrister presented evidence that the gunman entered the club just before 7 a.m., fired rapidly in varying directions, and escaped. The case is framed as three separate charges—one murder and two attempted murders—each to be proven beyond a reasonable doubt. The trial, presided over by Mr Justice Michael White, is expected to last eight weeks. Gerard Cervi pleaded not guilty.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Gunman fired nine times into gym class, boxing club murder trial hears. Charges or matters: murdering Mr Messett (50) at Bray Boxing Club, Bray Harbour, Bray, Co Wicklow on June 5, 2018. Procedural stage: trial

When:

• June 5, 2018 Hearing Or Sentence
• 2021-06-30 Publication

Why: Counsel said that the prosecution do not have to prove motive in a murder case. Prosecution account reported by CNI

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Trial Violent Crime

Related court reports

• 'Alternative dispute resolution': man arranged 'straightener' during which dad-of-seven was stabbed to death
• Murder accused pleads guilty to violent disorder at playground
• Former accountant went on 'nationwide tour' with bank card stolen from hospital patient
• State defends use of social media photos in Bray Boxing Club shooter's trial
• Facebook photos of Bray Boxing Club shooter with gun prejudiced his jury, barrister claims
• Suspended sentence for sex assault on girl (6)

Read the original CNI report