Courts / Dublin / Report

'Highly unlikely' Anne Colomines stabbed herself to death, pathologist tells murder trial

Date
2021-09-21

Stage
Trial

Primary locality
Dublin

County
Dublin

Summary

During the Central Criminal Court trial, Chief State Pathologist Dr Linda Mulligan testified that it is highly unlikely Anne Colomines stabbed herself to death. She described four stab wounds, a 22‑centimetre throat incision, and six defensive injuries on her hands, noting the fatal chest wound entered the right side between the fourth and fifth ribs and penetrated the heart. The throat wound was jagged, suggesting multiple passes, and would have caused severe pain and bleeding. Dr Mulligan argued that the pattern of wounds, the right‑handedness of the victim, and the absence of tentative wounds made self‑infliction improbable, though she could not rule it out entirely. The trial, presided over by Mr Justice Michael MacGrath, continues with a jury of twelve. The accused, Renato Gehlen, remains not guilty of murdering his 37‑year‑old French wife. The case also involves evidence from laptops and a knife found at the scene. The trial is ongoing.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: 'Highly unlikely' Anne Colomines stabbed herself to death, pathologist tells murder trial. Charges or matters: murdering his 37-year-old French wife at the apartment they shared in Dorset Square, Gardiner Street, Dublin 1 on 25 October 2017. Procedural stage: trial

When:

25 October 2017 Other
October 16, 2017 Other
October 24 Other
2021-09-21 Publication

Why: She explained that it is usual to see tentative or superficial wounds near the site of a self-inflicted stab wound where the person hesitates. CNI source report

Case subjects

Renato Gehlen

Defendant

Charges: murdering his 37-year-old French wife at the apartment they shared in Dorset Square, Gardiner Street, Dublin 1 on 25 October 2017 (Alleged Or Contested)

Plea: Not guilty