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Derry man tells murder trial that he "saw red" when pregnant ex-girlfriend told him baby wasn't his

Summary

A Derry man has given evidence at the Central Criminal Court denying murder but admitting he caused the death of his pregnant ex-girlfriend. Stephen Cahoon, aged 43, of Harvey Street in Derry, has pleaded not guilty to murdering Jean Teresa Quigley at Cornshell Fields in Derry on 26 July 2008. His defence counsel stated that while Mr Cahoon acknowledges killing Ms Quigley, this does not constitute an admission of murder. Testifying in his own defence, Mr Cahoon described losing his temper when Ms Quigley told him the baby was not his, saying he grabbed her and placed his hand on her throat to silence her. He stated he did not intend to kill her. Prosecution counsel challenged his account, presenting evidence from a witness via video link from Glasgow High Court who claimed Mr Cahoon visited him early that morning appearing distressed. Mr Cahoon denied this meeting occurred. The trial continues with closing speeches from counsel.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Derry man tells murder trial that he "saw red" when pregnant ex-girlfriend told him baby wasn't his. Charges or matters: murdering Jean Teresa Quigley (30) at Cornshell fields in Derry on July 26th, 2008. Procedural stage: trial

When:

• July 26th, 2008 Hearing Or Sentence
• June 2008 Hearing Or Sentence
• July 11 2008 Other
• Friday July 25 2008 Hearing Or Sentence
• July 29, 2008 Hearing Or Sentence
• July 26 2008 Hearing Or Sentence
• July 24 Other
• 2015-11-27 Publication

Why: When asked by his defence counsel why he "attacked" Jean, Mr Cahoon replied saying: "Just because what she said to me saying the baby was not mine. Defence account reported by CNI

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Trial Violent Crime

Read the original CNI report