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'Very strong support' for view that missing woman was in car driven by accused, scientists tell cold case trial
Summary
In a cold‑case trial, forensic scientists presented evidence that Nora Sheehan, who vanished in 1981 and was later found dead in Shippool Woods, had been in a car driven by Noel Long. Fibres from Sheehan's clothing matched those from the carpet of a blue Opel Kadett linked to Long, and paint fragments from her garments corresponded to paint on the vehicle. Dr Maureen Smith, Dr Sheila Willis, and Dr Amanda Lennon all confirmed the strong support for the view that Sheehan was in the Kadett. The trial also heard that Long, aged 74, has pleaded not guilty to her murder. The proceedings are ongoing before Mr Justice Paul McDermott and a jury. The case remains at the evidence‑presentation stage.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: 'Very strong support' for view that missing woman was in car driven by accused, scientists tell cold case trial. Charges or matters: murdering 54-year-old Nora Sheehan between June 6 and June 12, 1981 at an unknown place within the State. Procedural stage: trial
When:
- June 6 Other
- June 12, 1981 Other
- June 17, 1981 Hearing Or Sentence
- June 18, 1981 Other
- June 16, 1981 Incident
- November 30, 2021 Hearing Or Sentence
- December 1, 2021 Hearing Or Sentence
- 1979 to 2014 Other
- 2023-07-19 Publication
Case subjects
Defendant
Charges: murdering 54-year-old Nora Sheehan between June 6 and June 12, 1981 at an unknown place within the State (Alleged Or Contested)
Plea: Not guilty
Places mentioned
- The Central Criminal Court
- Curraheen Road
- Cork
- drive to the Bridewell Garda Station
- from Macroom Garda Station
- Macroom
Topics
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