Murder trial adjourned on medical grounds

The trial of a 38-year-old charged with murdering a man in 2003 has been adjourned as the accused was not present due to “an unforeseen medical condition.”

Darren Byrne, has pleaded not guilty at the Central Criminal Court to murdering Paul Ryan (aged 27) at Coolderry, Birr, Co Offaly on April 12, 2003.

Mr Byrne, of no fixed abode, has also pleaded not guilty to possession of a sawn-off shotgun with intent to endanger life at that location on the same date.

Mr Justice Garrett Sheehan told the jury the accused was not present “due to an unforeseen medical condition”.

The trial will resume tomorrow before a jury of seven men and five women.