Dublin murder trial begins

A 52-year-old Dublin man has gone on trial accused of shooting his friend dead during a late night row at his apartment.

Peter Donnelly of The Green, Larch Hill Apartments, Santry denies murdering 49-year-old Edward Flanagan on June 16, 2011.

The jury has heard there will be evidence that Peter Donnelly and three male friends went to his Santry apartment to watch films after a day spent drinking cans in a field.

A dispute broke out and it is alleged the 52-year-old got a handgun, walked round the back of the couch where Edward Flanagan was seated and shot him in the back of the neck.

Gardaí found the apartment door locked but by leaning over a neighbour's balcony they could see the deceased sitting slouched with a can of beer in his hand and blood around his head.

They forced an entry but despite efforts to resuscitate him Edward Flanagan was pronounced dead shortly after midnight.

The prosecution has said there will be evidence that later that day the accused Peter Donnelly voluntarily went to Coolock Garda Station and admitted discharging the gun.

He denies murder and charges of possessing a pistol and ammunition.