Courts / Offaly / Report
'Pandemonium': trial hears how children dove for cover during attack on halting site
Summary
A court has heard how there was 'pandemonium' with shots fired and children searching for cover during an attack on an unofficial halting site in Co Offaly. Two brothers are on trial at the Central Criminal Court, charged with attempting to murder another pair of brothers at the site last year. The victims were shot in the chest, neck, and face with pellets from a shotgun embedded near vital organs. Prosecuting barrister Kevin White SC told the jury the victims were fortunate it was not a fatal shooting. Patrick Ward (38) and John Pio Ward (42) are charged with attempted murder and possession of firearms. Both have pleaded not guilty. The incident followed a violent altercation outside Tullamore Accident and Emergency Hospital, captured on CCTV, involving Michael McDonagh, his son, and three members of the accused's family. Moments later, a large group from the official Kilcruttin halting site attacked the McDonaghs' unofficial site. The group was in possession of firearms, and shots were fired, causing chaos. The victims will testify that they recognized the shooters, Patrick and John Ward.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: 'Pandemonium': trial hears how children dove for cover during attack on halting site. Charges or matters: attempting to murder Anthony McDonagh at the site on March 21, 2025; the attempted murder of Michael McDonagh at the same location and on the same date; all charges. Procedural stage: trial
When:
- March 21, 2025 Incident
- March 21 Other
- 2026-05-07 Publication
Case subjects
Accused
Charges: the attempted murder of Michael McDonagh at the same location and on the same date; all charges (Alleged Or Contested)
Plea: Not guilty
Accused
Charges: attempting to murder Anthony McDonagh at the site on March 21, 2025; the attempted murder of Michael McDonagh at the same location and on the same date; all charges (Alleged Or Contested)
Plea: Not guilty
Places mentioned
- Central Criminal Court
- Emergency Hospital
- St James's Hospital
Topics
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