There were angry scenes at Limerick District Court house today when two men appeared charged with the murders of a man and a woman shot dead at a house in the city just over a week ago.
A crowd of up to 30 people gathered outside the building on Merchant’s Quay when cousins, Patrick O’Brien (31) and Thomas Stuart (27) were brought to court under armed garda escort.
Both men are charged with the murders of Des Kelly (24) and Breda Waters (28) at 531 O’Malley Park, Southill, Limerick on January 9th last.
As the accused men were being brought into the court gardaí had to restrain some members of the public who roared obscenities and tried to get at the men.
Det Gda Paraig O’Dwyer gave evidence of charging Patrick O’Brien, of Glanntan, Golf Links Road, Castletroy, Limerick, with the double murder.
Det Gda Pat Whelan gave evidence of formally charging Thomas Stuart of The Cedars, Briarfield, Castletroy, Limerick with the murders.
Insp Derek Smart asked that both accused be remanded in custody to appear before the same court again via video link on Thursday.
Solicitor Daragh McCarthy was assigned to represent both men.
Judge Tom O’Donnell said bail was a matter for the High Court because of the charges before the court.
The judge remanded both men in custody until January 20th next when they will appear before the same court via video link.
Members of the victims’ families were present in court for the brief hearing.
As he was being led out of the court Patrick O’Brien shouted“f**k ye”.
Members of the public gallery shouted back "f**k you" and "scumbag" as he was escorted away.