Courts / Laois / Report

Jury deliberating in trial of man accused of murdering housemate

Summary

In a Laois Central Criminal Court trial, a jury has begun deliberating on the murder of 26‑year‑old Alexander Karpovs, who died of a single stab wound to the heart after a dispute over ribs. The accused, 38‑year‑old Deivydas Zigelis, pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter. Both men worked as bin collectors and spent weekends drinking at home. The jury heard that Zigelis, after Karpovs returned from the butcher without ribs, became offended, took a kitchen knife, and stabbed him. CCTV showed Zigelis entering a butcher's shop that afternoon and leaving empty‑handed. The prosecution argued that intoxication was not a defence and that intent to kill or seriously harm existed. The jury deliberated for almost two hours before being sent home for the night, to resume on Tuesday morning.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Jury deliberating in trial of man accused of murdering housemate. Charges or matters: his murder, but guilty to his manslaughter. Procedural stage: trial

When:

• February 15th, 2014 Hearing Or Sentence
• 2016-06-20 Publication

Why: "One of the things Mr Devally will urge upon you is that he didn't have the intention because at the time he stuck the knife in he was drunk," he said, referring to the defence barrister's closing speech. Defence account reported by CNI

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Trial Violent Crime

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Read the original CNI report