Courts / Wicklow / Report

'Overwhelming evidence' that accused is Bray Boxing club gunman, prosecution say

Date
2023-11-15

Stage
Trial

Primary locality
Bray

County
Wicklow

Summary

In a Central Criminal Court hearing on 15 November 2023, counsel Paul Murray SC delivered a closing speech to a jury of twelve in the murder trial of Gerard Cervi, aged 36, who is accused of firing nine bullets at Bray Boxing Club on 5 June 2018. The prosecution presented CCTV footage showing Cervi travelling from his home to the club in a distinctive van, entering the club, firing in a methodical pattern, and then leaving the premises. DNA, fingerprints and other forensic evidence were also cited. The alleged victims were Robert 'Bobby' Messett, who died on the scene, and Ian Britton and Pete Taylor, who were injured. Murray argued that the evidence demonstrated Cervi's intent to kill, and urged the jury to find him guilty of murder and two attempted murders. The judge was scheduled to address the jury the following day. Gerard Cervi pleaded not guilty.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: 'Overwhelming evidence' that accused is Bray Boxing club gunman, prosecution say. Charges or matters: murdering Robert 'Bobby' Messett at Bray Boxing Club, Bray Harbour, Co Wicklow on June 5, 2018; the attempted murders of Mr Taylor and Ian Britton on the same date and at the same location. Procedural stage: trial

When:

June 5, 2018 Hearing Or Sentence
2023-11-15 Publication

Case subjects

Gerard Cervi

Defendant

Charges: murdering Robert 'Bobby' Messett at Bray Boxing Club, Bray Harbour, Co Wicklow on June 5, 2018; the attempted murders of Mr Taylor and Ian Britton on the same date and at the same location (Alleged Or Contested)

Plea: Not guilty