Courts / Clare / Report
Widower (79) viciously attacked by steel-capped boot wearing nephew, State tell murder trial
Summary
In a murder trial, the State presented evidence that 79‑year‑old widower John O'Neill was killed by his nephew Thomas Lorigan, 34, who allegedly repeatedly kicked him to the head with steel‑capped boots. The prosecution described O'Neill as a fit, healthy man who had lived alone after his wife's death and had recently run a bed and breakfast. On the night of 6 January 2022, O'Neill returned home after drinking and was attacked by Lorigan, who was described as "Mossy" and living in a derelict house. Witness Walter Burke testified that Lorigan left his house after an argument with O'Neill, and emergency services found O'Neill dead in the kitchen the next morning. The State's pathologist reported severe blunt‑force trauma to O'Neill's face, consistent with multiple kicks. CCTV footage showed a man assaulting another outside the B&B, with the attacker later seen heading toward Burke's house. Thomas Lorigan pleaded not guilty.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: Widower (79) viciously attacked by steel-capped boot wearing nephew, State tell murder trial. Charges or matters: murdering John O'Neill (79) at St Brendan's Road, Lisdoonvarna, Co Clare on a date unknown between January 6 and 7, 2022. Procedural stage: trial
When:
- January 6 Hearing Or Sentence
- January 7 Incident
- 2024-01-17 Publication
Case subjects
Defendant
Charges: murdering John O'Neill (79) at St Brendan's Road, Lisdoonvarna, Co Clare on a date unknown between January 6 and 7, 2022 (Alleged Or Contested)
Plea: Not guilty
Places mentioned
- St Brendan's Road
- Mr O'Neill's house
- Mr Burke's house
Topics
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