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'Inherent dangers' in firing warning shot, expert tells law professor's murder trial

Summary

During the trial of law professor Diarmuid Phelan, a ballistics expert explained that firing a warning shot carries inherent dangers because the projectile can travel and hit unintended targets. The expert noted that factors such as farm terrain, the trespassers' movement, and Phelan's state of mind on the day of the shooting would negatively affect his ability to aim and control the firearm. Evidence showed Phelan shouted at two unarmed trespassers to "get back" before firing three shots from his Smith & Wesson revolver. The State claimed two shots were fired into the air and the third struck Keith Conlon in the back of the head as he turned away. Phelan, 56, pleaded not guilty to murdering Conlon, 36, who died on 24 February 2022 at Hazelgrove Farm, Tallaght. The trial continues before a jury.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: 'Inherent dangers' in firing warning shot, expert tells law professor's murder trial. Charges or matters: murdering Mr Conlon (36) at Hazelgrove Farm, Kiltalown Lane, Tallaght, Dublin 24 on February 24, 2022. Procedural stage: trial

When:

• February 24, 2022 Other
• February 22 Incident
• 2024-11-08 Publication

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Trial Violent Crime

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Read the original CNI report