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Key witness tells law professor's murder trial that she was afraid and 'frozen to the spot'
Summary
During the murder trial of law professor and farmer Michael Phelan, witness Alexandra Fernandes testified that she was "frozen to the spot" and afraid when she saw two intruders walking toward Phelan on the farm. She described seeing a rainbow and telling co‑workers to make a wish, and that one said, "I just want to stay alive for today," which astonished her. Fernandes said she had seen the intruders, described as determined, walking up the field and that Phelan fired a third shot at the same time the intruders were turning to leave. She reported hearing a noise like a firecracker and that the shots were fired quickly, with no time between them. Fernandes also stated she had not seen the first intruder reach for his pockets. The testimony was given in direct evidence on Tuesday and was cross‑examined by the defence. The trial continues before a jury.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: Key witness tells law professor's murder trial that she was afraid and 'frozen to the spot'. Charges or matters: murdering Keith Conlon (36) at Hazelgrove Farm, Kiltalown Lane, Tallaght, on February 24, 2022. Procedural stage: trial
When:
- February 24, 2022 Hearing Or Sentence
- February 22, 2022 Hearing Or Sentence
- February 22 Incident
- 2024-10-23 Publication
Why: She agreed with Mr Bowman that she had been looking down the field because she had seen a rainbow. CNI source report
Case subjects
Applicant
Charges: murdering Keith Conlon (36) at Hazelgrove Farm, Kiltalown Lane, Tallaght, on February 24, 2022 (Alleged Or Contested)
Places mentioned
- Kiltalown Lane
- Tallaght
- Tallaght Hospital
- Tallaght University Hospital
Topics
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