Courts / Clare / Report

Nephew murdered uncle (78) by stamping on his head, prosecution tell jury

Summary

In a Lisdoonvarna murder trial, the prosecution argued that 34‑year‑old Thomas Lorigan, known as 'Mossy', killed his 78‑year‑old uncle John O'Neill by stamping on his head with steel‑capped boots and delivering calculated kicks. Evidence included blood‑stained boots and jeans found at Lorigan's residence, DNA matching O'Neill's profile, CCTV footage of a man in long pants entering the B&B, and testimony from Walter Burke that Lorigan had a heated argument with his uncle that night. The prosecution claimed the assault was vicious, with no resistance from O'Neill, and that Lorigan left the scene carrying something, possibly alcohol. Lorigan pleaded not guilty, and the defence contended the evidence was circumstantial, questioning the reliability of witness testimony and CCTV identification. The trial was set to continue on Monday.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Nephew murdered uncle (78) by stamping on his head, prosecution tell jury. Charges or matters: murdering Mr 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 Incident
• January 7 Other
• 2024-01-26 Publication

Why: Ms Brennan submitted it was not known what the accused's motive was and why he did what he did. CNI source report

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Trial Violent Crime

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Read the original CNI report