Garda murder trial continues

The trial of a Dublin man charged with the murder of a garda in Tallaght two years ago continues in the Central Criminal Court today.

38-year-old Danny O'Toole of Cashel Avenue, Crumlin, is facing three charges relating to the death of Sergeant Andrew Callanan, who died following a fire at Tallaght garda station.

The court heard yesterday that O'Toole became angry and suicidal after he was served with a barring order from his home following a domestic dispute.

On the morning of July 21, 1999, he drove to Tallaght garda station with two containers of petrol, flares and a sword.

After a confrontation with Sgt Callanan in which a fire extinguisher was sprayed, O'Toole dropped a lighted flare on the ground.

Petrol that had been spilled on the floor ignited, causing an explosion.

Sgt Callanan was pronounced dead shortly afterwards.

O'Toole has pleaded guilty to manslaughter, but not guilty to charges of murder and capital murder.