Man accidentally killed best friend after pointing loaded gun at him

A court has heard today how a Ballyfermot man accidentally killed his best friend after pointing a loaded gun at him.

Dean Short admits killing 18-year-old Paul McCarthy at a house at Myra Close, Inchicore more than two years ago.

The court heard how Paul McCarthy brought a handgun to his friend’s house on May 9, 2011.

He assured them it was not working and began aiming it at them.

After leaving it on a bed, Dean Short picked it up and pointed it at Paul to see how he liked it.

He told gardaí that it went off and he accidentally shot his best friend in the face.

After calling an ambulance, he left Paul’s bloodied and shaking body on the floor of a bedroom and hid the gun in a nearby bush.

Investigating officers found the gun and after presenting himself at a local Garda Station, Mr Short admitted killing him and hiding the weapon.

He told them: “I loved Paulie like a brother. I didn’t mean it. I’m so sorry”

Today, the victim’s mother left the courtroom in tears as her victim impact report was read out.

Mr Short bowed his head and wept uncontrollably as her words were shared with the court.

He has been remanded in custody and will be sentenced in December.