Courts / Dublin / Report

Murder accused husband upset that wife wanted divorce, jury to hear

Date
2021-09-14

Stage
Trial

Primary locality
Dublin

County
Dublin

Summary

In the Central Criminal Court, 39‑year‑old Renato Gehlen, a Brazilian national, pleaded not guilty to the murder of his 37‑year‑old French wife, Anne Colomines, who was found dead in their Dublin apartment on 25 October 2017. The prosecution, represented by Shane Costelloe SC, presented evidence that the couple's marriage, which began in October 2012, was in serious difficulty and that Ms Colomines had expressed a desire for divorce. According to the defence, Gehlen was deeply upset by this prospect. On the night of the death, Gehlen allegedly told a friend, "I have just killed Anne and I'm going to kill myself." Gardaí and the Dublin Fire Brigade entered the apartment, finding Ms Colomines deceased and Gehlen with a knife protruding from his torso. He was taken to Mater Hospital, where he received extensive treatment before being arrested.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Murder accused husband upset that wife wanted divorce, jury to hear. Charges or matters: murdering his wife Anne Colomines (37), a French national, at their home in Dorset Square, Gardiner Street upper, Dublin 1 on October 25, 2017. Procedural stage: trial

When:

October 25, 2017 Other
October 2012 Other
October 2017 Other
2021-09-14 Publication

Case subjects

Renato Gehlen

Accused

Charges: murdering his wife Anne Colomines (37), a French national, at their home in Dorset Square, Gardiner Street upper, Dublin 1 on October 25, 2017 (Alleged Or Contested)

Plea: Not guilty