Courts / Dublin / Report

Murder accused tells trial '100% coincidental' that he stabbed friend after threatening to do so

Date
2026-02-13

Stage
Trial

Primary locality
Dublin

County
Dublin

Summary

A murder accused, Joseph Lawlor, told a prosecution barrister that it was '100 percent coincidental' that he threatened to stab his friend, Michael Ryan, hours before doing so. Lawlor claimed he was in fear after Ryan broke into his house and threatened to throw grenades. He said Ryan took a bag containing almost €4,000 in profit from selling Zopiclone tablets. Lawlor followed Ryan outside with a knife and stabbed him in the neck, claiming it was accidental. He described Ryan as a 'capable and dangerous' man and said he feared for his life. The prosecution suggested Lawlor was not scared but wanted to 'send a message' that nobody threatens him. Lawlor denied intending to harm Ryan and said he was trying to scare him away from his house. The trial has heard that Lawlor and Ryan were drinking together and had earlier arguments captured on CCTV. Lawlor pleaded not guilty to the murder of Ryan, who was found dead in a carpark.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Murder accused tells trial '100% coincidental' that he stabbed friend after threatening to do so. Charges or matters: the murder of Michael Ryan (51) in a carpark to the back of the accused man's home on June 20, 2024. Procedural stage: trial

When: