Courts / Dublin / Report

Sister heard of brother's death on TV news

Date
2013-12-10
Stage
Trial
Primary locality
Dublin
County
Dublin

Summary

Paula Whyte, sister of David Whyte, learned of her brother's murder on television news on 29 September 2008. She described seeing a description of a man who matched her brother's appearance and clothing, which shocked her. She called her brother's phone, found it out of service, and then called 999. Paula and her sister went to Ballyfermot Garda Station, where she identified David's remains. While in the witness box, the court showed footage of a man at a shop doorway on 24 September 2009, which Paula identified as her brother, the last recorded sighting. The trial also heard from Ivan Ennis, who said the accused, Criostoir MacCarthaigh, threatened him that night, saying "I will cut you." The State alleges MacCarthaigh stabbed David on Ulster Street and then drove him to the derelict churchyard in Palmerstown where he was killed. The trial is before Mr Justice Patrick McCarthy and a jury of seven men and five women. Criostoir MacCarthaigh pleaded not guilty.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Sister heard of brother's death on TV news. Charges or matters: murdering David Whyte (35) in Dublin between September 24 and 26, 2008. Procedural stage: trial

When:

Case subjects

Criostoir MacCarthaigh

Defendant

Charges: murdering David Whyte (35) in Dublin between September 24 and 26, 2008 (Alleged Or Contested)

Plea: Not guilty

Places mentioned

Court Venue
  • Central Criminal Court
Secondary Mention
Journey Or Route
  • Mill Lane
  • Ulster Street
Garda Station
  • then travelled to Ballyfermot Garda Station
Incident

Topics

Stage Trial Violent Crime

Related court reports

Read the original CNI report

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