Teen who fled charged with murder

A TEENAGER who had earlier breached his bail conditions and fled to London was yesterday charged in connection with the death of a man in Killarney almost a year ago.

Shane O’Riordan, 18, of 26 Arbutus Grove, Killarney, was charged with the murder of James Brazier, 30, in a house at Pinewood Estate, Killarney, on April 15 last year.

He was remanded in custody at Killarney Court, and is due to appear at Tralee Court on Wednesday.

Judge James O’Connor was told the accused replied “no comment” after being cautioned and charged at Killarney Garda Station.

James Brazier died in Kerry General Hospital, Tralee, just hours after being stabbed several times at a house in the Killarney’s Pinewood Estate.

O’Riordan was also charged yesterday with assaulting Graham Geasley, causing him harm, at Chapel Lane, Killarney, on December 12, 2006.

He was again remained in custody to Tralee Court, next Wednesday.

Mr Geasley sustained severe head injuries and significant brain injuries in the alleged assault, the court heard.

The DPP has refused to allow that case to be dealt with in the District Court and it will go forward to the Circuit Criminal Court where it will be contested, according to Padraig O’Connell, solicitor for the accused.

Meanwhile, the State indicated an application for bail relating to the alleged murder charge would be “strenuously opposed”.

Mr O’Connell also said the bail application would be made to the High Court.

Two bench warrants had been issued for the arrest of O’Riordan, who returned voluntarily to Killarney to face the charges, Mr O’Connell added.

Free legal aid was granted in both cases.

Meanwhile, a second man is due to appear at Kenmare Court today to face a charge in relation to the death of Mr Brazier.