Courts / Cavan / Report
Man accused of murdering his wife "said a prayer" after she was shot, jury hears
Summary
The trial of Oliver Kierans (57), of Drumbannon Bailieborough in Cavan, continues before Ms Justice Aileen Donnelly and a jury. Kierans has pleaded not guilty to the alleged murder of his wife, Patricia Kierans (54), on September 5, 2013, at their home. He also pleaded not guilty to the unlawful possession of a 12-gauge double barrel shotgun and not guilty to possessing the same firearm with intent to endanger life. The jury heard evidence from Detective Garda Jim Mathews regarding Kierans' statements in garda interviews. Kierans allegedly stated he took his wife upstairs to show her he intended to end his own life, claiming the gun discharged accidentally, resulting in "blood everywhere." He further alleged he prayed and attempted to close his wife's eyes. Kierans admitted to having consumed alcohol and stated he kept the shotgun under the bed for protection against intrudants. Garda Cathal Buggy testified that Kierans appeared distressed in Cavan General Hospital, asking why he had not taken his own life. Kierans allegedly told Garda Buggy the incident followed an argument over a non-existent affair. The court heard Kierans had hoped to "finish things" at a pub prior to the incident. The trial is ongoing and was not adjourned or finalised at the time of this report.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: Man accused of murdering his wife "said a prayer" after she was shot, jury hears. Charges or matters: murdering Patricia Kierans (54) on the September 5, 2013 at the same address; unlawful possession of a 12-gauge double barrel shotgun and not guilty to possession of the same shotgun with intent to endanger life. Procedural stage: trial
When:
- September 5, 2013 Incident
- 2015-02-16 Publication
Case subjects
Accused
Charges: murdering Patricia Kierans (54) on the September 5, 2013 at the same address; unlawful possession of a 12-gauge double barrel shotgun and not guilty to possession of the same shotgun with intent to endanger life (Alleged Or Contested)
Plea: Not guilty
Places mentioned
Topics
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