Courts / Dublin / Report

Derry man admits to killing pregnant woman, murder trial hears

Date
2015-11-02
Stage
Trial
Primary locality
Dublin
County
Dublin

Summary

A man charged with murder at the Central Criminal Court in Dublin has admitted killing the victim, though he maintains the killing does not constitute murder. Stephen Cahoon, aged 42 and with an address in Derry, Northern Ireland, has pleaded not guilty to the murder of Jean Teresa Quigley at Cornshell Fields in Derry on 26 July 2008. Ms Quigley, aged 30, was pregnant with Mr Cahoon's child at the time. The prosecution outlined that the couple met in March 2008 and their relationship deteriorated by July. The court heard evidence regarding text messages between them, witness accounts of disturbances on the night in question, and forensic findings including bloodstains matching Ms Quigley on a T-shirt recovered from Mr Cahoon's flat. Post mortem evidence indicated Ms Quigley died from manual strangulation. Mr Cahoon was located in Donegal Town on 5 August, where he told gardaí he was the person being sought. The defence acknowledged the killing but disputed the murder charge. The trial continues.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Derry man admits to killing pregnant woman, murder trial hears. Charges or matters: murdering Jean Teresa Quigley (30) at Cornshell fields in Derry on July 26th, 2008. Procedural stage: trial

When:

Case subjects

Stephen Cahoon

Defendant

Charges: murdering Jean Teresa Quigley (30) at Cornshell fields in Derry on July 26th, 2008 (Alleged Or Contested)

Plea: Not guilty

Places mentioned

Court Venue
  • Central Criminal Court
Secondary Mention
Residence
  • Harvey Street
Facility
  • Ms Quigley's house

Topics

Stage Trial Violent Crime

Related court reports

Read the original CNI report

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