Man set to face trial over beach death

Accused denies the manslaughter of 22-year-old

A MAN is to stand trial in the New Year charged with the unlawful killing of a 22-year-old who died after an alleged incident on a beach.

Joseph Dorrian, 23, appeared at a remote hearing of Downpatrick Crown Court, sitting in Belfast, where he was charged with a single count of manslaughter.

Darren O’neill passed away in hospital on June 29 last year – two days after the alleged incident at Tyrella in Co Down.

Also present yesterday via a videolink were members of the West Belfast man’s family, some of whom wore T-shirts bearing images of Darren.

Dorrian, from Lakeview, Crumlin, Co Antrim, who appeared via a videolink with his solicitor’s office, confirmed he could see and hear the court.

He was then charged with manslaughter and when asked how he pleaded to the unlawful killing of Darren O’neill, replied: “Not guilty.”

Defence barrister Martin Morgan told Judge Geoffrey Miller QC he is scheduled to consult with Dorrian via Zoom on Thursday.

He added he believed the trial will last around two weeks.

Judge Miller said that while he wanted to give the case priority, especially for the O’neill f a mi ly, there is at present limited courtroom space.

Saying it was unlikely the trial will be held before Christmas, Judge Miller added he would review the case in November and hoped a trial date could be fixed then.

Addressing Dorrian, he said that as he had pleaded not guilty he will now face a trial. He added: “It is unlikely that will be any time before th e start of 2021. All of that will be kept under review in light of the ongoing restrictions we are all enduring at this time.”

Dorrian was released on continuing bail and the case was listed for review on November 6.

It is unlikely that will be any time before 2021 JUDGE GEOFFREY MILLER ON TRIAL DATE