The prosecution case against a murder accused is based on DNA evidence taken from a minute bloodstain found on broken glass at the scene, the Central Criminal Court heard yesterday.
It was the opening day of the trial of Mr Frederick Howe (47), of Oakfield Place, South Circular Road, Dublin 8.
He has pleaded not guilty to the murder of Mr Francis Fitzgerald (27), on November 14th, 2000, at his home at Annamoe Terrace, Dublin.
Mr Howe also denies possession of a 9mm calibre pistol with intent to endanger life at Annamoe Terrace on the same date. Outlining the case against the accused, Mr Tom O'Connell SC, prosecuting, told the jury: "The prosecution case is based on DNA profile derived from blood which was found on the jagged edge of the broken window through which Francis Fitzgerald was shot and which matched the DNA profile of the accused man Frederick Howe."
The jury heard that the deceased man was shot twice in the chest and died instantly.
Six bullets were fired, three from outside a rear window and three from inside the broken glass.
The jury heard that the deceased had been watching TV with his girlfriend, Ms Jenny Inglis.
He was shot shortly after she left to go to the shops nearby. She heard gunshots and returned immediately and saw Fitzgerald lying at the bottom of the stairs.
Counsel told the jury that ballistics experts noted minute bloodstains on the broken glass and these were sent for DNA analysis.
In June 2001, gardaí arrived at St James's Hospital in Dublin, where Mr Howe had been treated for injuries resulting from a road traffic accident.
He was arrested and agreed to provide a hair sample, which matched the DNA taken from the blood-stained glass.
Mr Howe denies being in Annamoe Terrace on the night Mr Fitzgerald was killed. The trial continues today.