Valerie French Kilroy murder trial hits 'bump in the road'

At the Central Criminal Court, the murder trial of James Kilroy, aged 49, of Kilbree Lower, Westport, Co Mayo, has been adjourned until Monday afternoon following an unforeseen development. Mr Kilroy, a park ranger, is charged with the murder of his wife Valerie French Kilroy, aged 41, at their rural home on a date between 13 and 14 June 2019. He has pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity. The trial was delayed this morning when High Court judge Ms Justice Mary Ellen Ring informed the jury that an unexpected matter had arisen unknown to all parties. She noted that neither party was at fault and that additional time was required to address the issue. Evidence presented to the jury has included testimony from the Chief State Pathologist regarding the cause of death. The defence has made formal admissions that the defendant killed his wife. The trial will resume on Monday.