Courts / Dublin / Report

Retired pathologist tells manslaughter trial he disagrees with Prof Marie Cassidy over rare cause of death

Date
2015-12-04

Stage
Trial

Primary locality
Dublin

County
Dublin

Summary

In a Dublin Circuit Criminal Court manslaughter trial, retired pathologist Dr Declan Gilsenan opposed Chief State Pathologist Professor Marie Cassidy's conclusion that Jason Saunders died from commotio cordis, a rare cardiac arrest caused by a chest blow. Gilsenan argued Saunders' death resulted from a combination of an argument with Paul Brannigan and a cocktail of illegal drugs, noting that cocaine can disturb heart rhythm regardless of dose. He cited the absence of commotio cordis deaths in Ireland and estimated a 1‑in‑50‑000 incidence for cocaine‑related deaths in Cork and Kerry, versus 1‑in‑50‑million for commotio cordis in the US. Brannigan, 24, pleaded not guilty to manslaughter, assault, and possession of a golf club, admitting a verbal row and head‑butting but denying striking Saunders with the club. The trial continues before Judge Patrick McCartan and a twelve‑person jury.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Retired pathologist tells manslaughter trial he disagrees with Prof Marie Cassidy over rare cause of death. Charges or matters: the manslaughter of Jason Saunders at Fassaugh Avenue, Cabra West on March 18, 2014; assaulting Mr Saunders causing him harm and to producing a golf club in the course of a dispute at the same date and location. Procedural stage: trial

When:

March 18, 2014 Hearing Or Sentence
2015-12-04 Publication

Why: He said he initially denied telling gardaí that he had asked a shop-keeper about CCTV because he had panicked. CNI source report

Case subjects

Paul Brannigan

Defendant

Charges: the manslaughter of Jason Saunders at Fassaugh Avenue, Cabra West on March 18, 2014; assaulting Mr Saunders causing him harm and to producing a golf club in the course of a dispute at the same date and location (Alleged Or Contested)

Plea: Not guilty