Corkman charged with daytime murder on city street

It was previously alleged that the late Jason Butler was slashed in the throat during the daylight incident on Grand Parade

Aaron Babbington (pictured) was charged with the murder of Jason Butler on June 14 at Grand Parade, Cork, contrary to Common Law. File picture: Larry Cummins

A 30-year-old man was charged on Tuesday with murdering a 32-year-old man in the centre of Cork City last June.

Detective Garda Pat Russell formally arrested Aaron Babbington and charged him at Cork District Court with the murder of Jason Butler on June 14 at Grand Parade, Cork, contrary to Common Law.

Sergeant Pat Lyons said the Director of Public Prosecutions directed that the murder case would proceed at the Central Criminal Court or the accused could sign a plea of guilty at district court level and be sent forward for sentencing at the Central Criminal Court.

Defence solicitor, Aoife Buttimer, said a book of evidence would be required. The solicitor acknowledged that there could be no application for bail on a murder charge at the district court.

Judge Mary Dorgan confirmed it was not a suitable case for bail to be issued at the district court. Mr Babbington was remanded in custody until December 12 to allow time for preparation and service of a book of evidence.

30-year-old Aaron Babbington, formerly of Churchfield Avenue, Churchfield, Cork, was asked he if had any reply after being charged and cautioned, but he made no reply to the murder charge.

It was previously alleged that the late Mr Butler was slashed in the throat during the daylight incident on Grand Parade at around 7.30pm that Wednesday and died two days later. The late Mr Butler was originally from Castleredmond in Midleton, County Cork.