Five men and teen deny murder of Thomas Dooley in Kerry graveyard

Thomas Dooley (43) died after suffering critical injuries while attending the funeral of a family friend at New Rath cemetery outside Tralee on October 5 2022.

Six defendants went on trial on Wednesday for the murder of Mr Dooley at the Central Criminal Court, sitting in Cork, with Ms Justice Ellen Ring being told the hearing could last for up to two months.

All six, who range in age from 18 to 42 years, formally denied the murder charge when arraigned.

The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) indicated that the hearing will conclude before the end of the current court sessions on July 31 next.

Under the Jury Act, the DPP has also ruled that a jury larger than the normal 12 individuals be sworn in given the potential duration of the trial which is expected to be at hearing throughout June and July.

Mr Dooley of Hazelwood Drive, Killarney, Co Kerry suffered fatal injuries minutes after he entered New Rath cemetery to attend the burial of a neighbour.

The father-of-seven was grievously…