Courts / Westmeath / Report

Traveller feud resulted in 'vicious' afternoon stabbing on busy street

Summary

A man suffered life-threatening injuries when stabbed multiple times during an assault on Austin Friars Street in Mullingar on August 2nd, 2024, arising from an ongoing feud between Traveller families. The Central Criminal Court heard that Anthony Dinnegan Jnr sustained serious wounds to his head, chest and leg, with doctors confirming a perforated liver that required immediate surgery and transfusions. He spent twenty-four hours in critical condition at Midlands Regional Hospital. Christopher Nevin, aged 31, and Michael Nevin, aged 41, both from Mullingar, faced charges of attempted murder. Michael Nevin pleaded guilty to causing serious harm, whilst Christopher Nevin pleaded guilty to violent disorder. The Director of Public Prosecutions accepted both pleas. Detective Gardaí presented evidence of prior threatening incidents between the families and CCTV footage showing Michael Nevin carrying a knife during the assault. Both families have since engaged with the Traveller Mediation Service to resolve their differences. Mr Justice David Keane adjourned sentencing to October 31st.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Traveller feud resulted in 'vicious' afternoon stabbing on busy street. Charges or matters: violent disorder. Procedural stage: trial

When:

• August 2, 2024 Incident
• August 2 Incident
• October 31 Adjournment
• 2025-10-21 Publication

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Trial Violent Crime

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Read the original CNI report