Courts / Galway / Report
'Most terrible and dark': Farmer goes on trial accused of murdering aunt with tractor
Summary
A 58‑year‑old farmer, Michael Scott of Gortanumera, Portumna, has been brought before the Central Criminal Court on a murder charge. He is accused of driving a JCB tractor over his 76‑year‑old aunt, Christine 'Chrissie' Treacy, in a yard outside her home at Derryhiny on the afternoon of 27 April 2018. The prosecution, represented by Dean Kelly SC, argues that the incident was not an accident but a deliberate act carried out in the context of a long‑running land dispute that had eroded the relationship between the parties. Mr Kelly described the case as a "most terrible and dark" crime, noting that Mr Scott had a sense of being wronged and that he "callously and wilfully" drove over his aunt. Mr Scott has pleaded not guilty. The trial, which may last up to ten weeks, is set to continue tomorrow.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: 'Most terrible and dark': Farmer goes on trial accused of murdering aunt with tractor. Charges or matters: murder. Procedural stage: trial
When:
- April 27, 2018 Other
- April 2018 Other
- 2023-01-18 Publication
Case subjects
Places mentioned
- Central Criminal Court
Topics
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