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Murder accused was wearing stab vest when arrested, trial hears

Summary

During a murder trial in the Central Criminal Court, the prosecution presented forensic evidence indicating that Joseph Lawlor, aged 39, was wearing a blood‑stained stab vest when he was arrested. DNA from the vest matched that of the deceased, Michael Ryan, aged 51. Pathologist Dr Yvonne McCarthy described a single stab wound to Ryan's neck, 9.1 cm below the right earlobe, 2.9 cm long and 5.8 cm deep, penetrating the subclavian artery and causing cardiovascular collapse. The wound was consistent with a kitchen knife found in Lawlor's home. McCarthy also noted 57 bruises and abrasions on Ryan's body, some consistent with earlier scuffles. Toxicology revealed cocaine metabolites, benzodiazepines, a sleeping tablet, and a blood alcohol level 1.5 times the legal limit. The trial, presided over by Justice Karen O'Connor, will continue tomorrow before a jury of five women and seven men. Joseph Lawlor pleaded not guilty.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Murder accused was wearing stab vest when arrested, trial hears. Charges or matters: the murder of Michael Ryan (51) outside Mr Lawlor's house in Hampton Wood Way, St Margaret's Road, Finglas, Dublin 11 on June 20, 2024. Procedural stage: trial

When:

• June 20, 2024 Other
• 2025-06-25 Publication

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Drugs Stage Trial Violent Crime

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Read the original CNI report