Teen charged with Michaela Davis murder remanded in custody

A teenager charged with murdering 12-year-old schoolgirl Michaela Davis in west Dublin in August was today remanded in custody for a fourth time pending the preparation of a book of evidence.

Jonathan Byrne (aged 19) of Lohunda Downs, Clonsilla in Dublin, was before Cloverhill District Court accused of murdering the girl, in the early hours of Saturday August 28 on the Porterstown Road.

The defendant, who wore a white shirt and black trousers, did not speak during today’s brief court appearance.

Det Sgt Daniel Callaghan from Blanchardstown garda station told Judge Bridget Reilly that he was seeking an extension of time for the book of evidence, which is currently being prepared, to be served on the accused.

The defence consented to the application and Judge Reilly further remanded the defendant to appear again on November 9 next.

Michaela was reported missing shortly after 2am, about two hours after leaving her home in the Village development in the Blanchardstown area.

The 12-year-old schoolgirl had told family members she would return shortly.

Her body was found shortly before 4pm in undergrowth on a bank of the Royal Canal.