18-year-old charged with ex-soldier’s murder

AN 18-year-old man was yesterday charged with the murder of retired Limerick soldier James Boyce at his home at 150 St Munchin’s St, St Mary’s Park, Limerick.

Christopher McNamara, with an address at 1 Good Shepherd Villas, Pennywell, Limerick, was remanded in custody by Judge Tom O’Donnell at Limerick District Court.

Det Garda Mark Deasy gave evidence of arresting and charging Mr McNamara at 3.05pm. Mr McNamara made no reply when the charge was put to him.

Mr McNamara is charged with the murder of Mr Boyce between March 6 and March 7 at his home in St Mary’s Park.

Ted McCarthy, solicitor, said Mr McNamara was unemployed and sought legal aid, which was granted, and Mr McCarthy was assigned to represent the accused.

Insp Jerry Horan asked for Mr McNamara to be remanded in custody to Wednesday.

Judge O’Donnell said that appearance is to be made via video link to Limerick prison.

Mr Boyce served in the army from 1956 to 1962 and spent six months with an Irish UN contingent in the Congo in 1961. He was awarded a UN medal for his service in the Congo.

On leaving the army he emigrated to England.

He returned to the family home in St Mary’s Park 16 years ago on the death of his mother, Mary Ellen.