Pensioner's injuries were “a horrendous sight to behold”

A 30-year-old man from Sligo has pleaded not guilty to murder but admitted manslaughter in connection with the death of a 67-year-old pensioner in September 2012. Simon McGinley of Connaughton Road has also admitted false imprisonment and trespass to commit robbery at the victim's home on Old Market Street. The Central Criminal Court heard that the State rejected the manslaughter plea and a jury trial commenced. Medical evidence described severe head injuries including skull fracture, brain swelling, and extensive bruising. The deceased died following cardiac arrest at Sligo General Hospital. Detectives told the court that McGinley appeared distressed during interview, expressing remorse and stating the victim "wasn't meant to die." He indicated he had attempted to alert gardaí to the man's location but they attended the wrong address. The trial was ongoing at reporting.