Courts / Clare / Report

Widower's face 'flattened' by multiple kicks and stamping, pathologist tells murder trial

Summary

During the Central Criminal Court hearing, Assistant State Pathologist Dr Margot Bolster described the body of 78‑year‑old widower John O'Neill, found on his kitchen floor with a heavily blood‑stained, flattened face. She reported severe blunt‑force trauma, multiple fractures of facial bones, a traumatic brain injury, and extensive bruising and lacerations consistent with repeated kicks, blows and stamping. The deceased's heart was normal, and a toxicology report showed an alcohol level of 97 mg, equivalent to three pints. Dr Bolster concluded that respiratory compromise from inhalation of blood, caused by the severe facial and neck trauma, was the cause of death. The prosecution alleges that Thomas Lorigan, 34, the victim's nephew, repeatedly kicked O'Neill while wearing steel‑capped boots, leading to the fatal injuries. Lorigan has pleaded not guilty to the murder charge. The trial continues before Mr Justice Paul McDermott and a jury.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Widower's face 'flattened' by multiple kicks and stamping, pathologist tells murder trial. Charges or matters: murdering John O'Neill (78) 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 Other
• October 2021 Other
• November 2021 Other
• 2024-01-23 Publication

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Trial Violent Crime

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Read the original CNI report