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Witness tells murder trial that accused texted him: "I think I murdered someone last night"
Summary
During the murder trial of Wayne Kennedy, a 33‑year‑old from Rathsallagh Park, Shankill, a witness, Mark McGovern, testified that Kennedy had sent him a text message on the morning of December 26, 2013, saying, "I think I murdered someone last night." McGovern said he received the message at 5:34 am and, being drunk, ignored it, later turning his phone off and sleeping. He recalled additional messages the next morning, including pleas for help. McGovern also described learning of a dispute between Kennedy and Sean Turner, the 24‑year‑old victim, through his wife's Facebook page. The prosecution also called Ian Messitt, who claimed to have heard shouting from the estate and seen Turner's blood, and Garda Neil Dunne, who found a knife handle in a grassy verge. Kennedy pleaded not guilty to murder and serious harm charges, and the trial continues.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: Witness tells murder trial that accused texted him: "I think I murdered someone last night". Charges or matters: murdering David Spain on December 26, 2013 at this address as well as intentionally or recklessly causing serious harm to Sean Turner (24) on the same date; both counts. Procedural stage: trial
When:
- December 26, 2013 Hearing Or Sentence
- Christmas Day 2013 Other
- 2015-07-27 Publication
Case subjects
Accused
Charges: murdering David Spain on December 26, 2013 at this address as well as intentionally or recklessly causing serious harm to Sean Turner (24) on the same date; both counts (Alleged Or Contested)
Plea: Not guilty
Places mentioned
- Rathsallagh Park
- Central Criminal Court
- Mr McGovern's house
- Rathsallagh Park
Topics
Social Media Stage Trial Violent Crime
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