Courts / Dublin / Report

Stab wound to the chest was unsurvivable, pathologist tells murder trial

Date
2026-07-08

Stage
Sentence

Primary locality
Blanchardstown

County
Dublin

Summary

Derek Boyd, 31, and Chantelle Harcourt, 34, are on trial at the Central Criminal Court, where both have pleaded not guilty to charges arising from an incident at a home in Dublin on June 9, 2024. Mr Boyd faces charges of murdering Mark Carroll, 34, threatening Megan Rock, and assaulting her. Ms Harcourt is accused of impeding the apprehension or prosecution of another person at the scene and later at Blanchardstown Garda Station. The jury heard from Assistant State Pathologist Dr Margaret Bolster that Mr Carroll died from a fatal stab wound to the chest, which penetrated the pericardial sac and right ventricle. She stated the injury was unsurvivable and caused haemorrhage and shock, with no contributory factors from alcohol or cocaine. Minor injuries consistent with a fight were also noted. The prosecution alleges Mr Boyd stabbed Mr Carroll with intent to kill or cause serious harm. The jury was informed that Mr Boyd was on a suspended sentence for previously shooting his sister dead in a tragic accident. The trial continues before Ms Justice Melanie Greally.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Stab wound to the chest was unsurvivable, pathologist tells murder trial. Charges or matters: murdering Mark Carroll (34) at his home on June 9, 2024. Procedural stage: sentence

When:

June 9, 2024 Other
2026-07-08 Publication

Case subjects

Chantelle Harcourt

Accused

Plea: Not guilty

Derek Boyd

Defendant

Charges: murdering Mark Carroll (34) at his home on June 9, 2024 (Alleged Or Contested)

Plea: Not guilty

Outcome: The jury has heard that Mr Boyd was on a suspended sentence for shooting his sister dead "in a tragic accident" when he is alleged to have fatally stabbed Mr Carroll.