Northern Ireland shooting trial halted as veteran falls ill

THE trial of former soldier Dennis Hutchings was adjourned yesterday after he was taken to hospital because of ill health.

The Army veteran of the Troubles was charged with attempted murder over a fatal shooting in Northern Ireland almost 50 years ago.

A defence barrister informed Belfast Crown Court of the development as proceedings in the non-jury trial were due to begin yesterday.

James Lewis QC told judge Mr Justice O’hara that Mr Hutchings, 80, had been unable to attend court. “I regret to say he’s been taken unwell and is presently in hospital,” he said.

The trial has been ongoing for two weeks. Mr Hutchings is suffering from kidney disease and the court has been sitting only three days a week to enable him to undergo dialysis.

He is charged with the attempted murder of John Pat Cunningham in Co Tyrone in 1974. The former member of the Life Guards regiment from Cawsand in Cornwall also denies a count of attempted grievous bodily harm with intent.

Mr Cunningham, 27, was shot dead as he ran away from an Army patrol near Benburb.

Justice O’hara adjourned proceedings until Monday.