No lawful basis for vulnerable man to be shot, Army veteran’s trial told

Dennis Hutchings arrives at court with Johnny Mercer (Peter Morrison/PA)

The trial of an Army veteran over a Troubles shooting will hear overwhelming evidence that he intended to kill an innocent and vulnerable man who posed no threat, a court has heard.

Dennis Hutchings, 80, a former member of the Life Guards, has pleaded not guilty to the attempted murder of John Pat Cunningham in Co Tyrone in 1974. He also denies a count of attempted grievous bodily harm with intent.