Limerick Man Goes On Trial For The Murder Of Martin Purcell

A Limerick man has gone on trial accused of the murder of Martin Purcell who was fatally stabbed 41 times at his home.

Gerard Manning denies killing the the 54-year-old at an apartment on Wickham Street between 28th and 30 September 2011.

Opening the case for prosecution Una Ní Raifeartaigh, SC, said Martin Purcell seems to have been a quiet man, who loved music and liked to take a drink.

On the 30th September the tenant who lived below him thought he hadn't seen him in a while and alerted the landlord who called round to the property.

The jury was told he opened the door to a horrific scene and dialled the emergency services immediately.

There was a body lying on the floor with multiple stab wounds. The trousers and underwear were pulled down and the lights and television were on.

The court heard Gerard Manning denied knowing Martin Purcell in garda interviews.

Ms Ní Raiffertaigh claims that is significant because the prosecution alleges two fingerprints in blood at the scene match those of the accused.

The trial continues.

(CD)