Courts / Dublin / Report
Former rugby captain died of blunt force trauma to head and face, trial hears
Summary
During a murder trial in the Central Criminal Court, evidence was presented that 62‑year‑old Cathal Sweeney died from blunt force trauma to the head and face after being repeatedly punched by his friend, 34‑year‑old Gary Walsh, while watching a rugby match on television. Dr Michael Curtis, the Deputy State Pathologist, testified that Sweeney's nose and left cheekbone were broken, with lacerations and a deep gash on his forehead. He described extensive bruising on the face, scalp, mouth, body and all four limbs, including tearing of muscle in the back. The injuries caused brain swelling, impaired breathing, and blood in the nostrils, which, combined with Sweeney's warfarin therapy, prevented clotting and increased bleeding. Sweeney also had coronary artery disease and an enlarged heart. The cause of death was stated as blunt force trauma to the head and face with profuse hemorrhage on a background of coronary artery atheroma, an enlarged heart and warfarin therapy.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: Former rugby captain died of blunt force trauma to head and face, trial hears. Charges or matters: murdering Cathal Sweeney in Ashdale Gardens, Terenure in Dublin; murder but guilty to manslaughter on 8th February 2014. Procedural stage: trial
When:
- 8th February 2014 Other
- 2017-04-27 Publication
Case subjects
Accused
Charges: murdering Cathal Sweeney in Ashdale Gardens, Terenure in Dublin; murder but guilty to manslaughter on 8th February 2014 (Alleged Or Contested)
Accused
Charges: murdering Cathal Sweeney in Ashdale Gardens, Terenure in Dublin; murder but guilty to manslaughter on 8th February 2014 (Alleged Or Contested)
Places mentioned
Topics
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