Courts / Tipperary / Report

Murder accused said he punched deceased like "Fists of Fury" film, trial hears

Summary

In the Central Criminal Court, John Hannigan, 46, pleaded not guilty to the murder of Anthony Fallon and to assault causing harm. During Garda interviews, Hannigan described punching Fallon "like the film Fists of Fury," claiming he had the ability to kill but no intention. He admitted giving several statements, some of which were lies, and expressed regret, calling the incident a tragic accident. Hannigan denied giving crush‑type injuries, despite the State Pathologist's findings of severe crush injuries and 31 rib fractures. The State alleged Hannigan and Joseph O'Riordan assaulted Fallon at his flat, then violently assaulted him in a car park and helped him into River House where he died. O'Riordan is jailed, having pleaded guilty to assault. The trial continues before Mr Justice Paul Carney and a jury of eight men and three women.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Murder accused said he punched deceased like "Fists of Fury" film, trial hears. Charges or matters: murdering Anthony Fallon in Clonmel on January 28 2012; assault causing harm on the 46 year-old on the same date at Mr Fallon's flat on Abbey Street in the town; assaulting Mr Fallon. Procedural stage: trial

When:

• January 28 2012 Incident
• 2014-02-25 Publication

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Trial Violent Crime

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Read the original CNI report