Courts / Kilkenny / Report

Kilkenny man died from single stab wound to the chest, murder trial hears

Date
2015-05-11

Stage
Trial

Primary locality
Kilkenny

Summary

The murder trial of Tadhg Butler, 34, of Seafield, Tramore, Co Waterford, continues at the court. Butler, also known as Thomas O'Grady, has pleaded not guilty to the alleged murder of Michael O'Dwyer at that address on 10 January 2014. State Pathologist Professor Marie Cassidy testified that O'Dwyer died from a single stab wound to the left side of the chest, which entered his heart and left lung. She noted the injury was consistent with a blade having a single side cutting edge and that there was no evidence of self-defensive injuries. Toxicology reports indicated alcohol and a tranquilliser-type drug in the deceased's system. Under cross-examination, Dr Cassidy acknowledged that either of two similar knives recovered from the scene could have caused the injury. Garda Paul O'Flynn stated that only those two black-handled knives were found during the search. Forensic scientist Sarah Fleming reported finding no blood on the knives or on swabs taken from Butler's hands. The matter was adjourned, and the trial continues.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Kilkenny man died from single stab wound to the chest, murder trial hears. Charges or matters: murdering Michael O'Dwyer at that address on 10th January, 2014; murdering his fellow Kilkenny man. Procedural stage: trial

When: