Victims Name Attackers In Double Attempted Murder Trial Involving Offaly Brothers

Patrick and John Pio Ward also face charges relating to firearm possession and public disorder.

The jury in the trial of two brothers accused of the attempted murder of two other brothers has heard the victims gave Gardai the names of their alleged attackers.

Patrick and John Pio Ward, who live next to each other in Kilcruttin, Tullamore, Co Offaly, are also facing charges of firearm possession and violent disorder.

John Pio Ward is accused of shooting Michael McDonagh, while his younger brother, Patrick is accused of shooting Anthony McDonagh, during the same incident, which is alleged to have taken place at an unofficial halting site in Tullamore, Co Offaly on the 21st of March last year.

Both men were suffered multiple gunshot wounds.

The court heard Michael in particular was very lucky to survive given the location of some of the shotgun pellets lodged in his body.

Both men discharged themselves against medical advice.

While recovering in hospital, the jury heard Garda evidence that Michael McDonagh said he was 90pc sure it was John Pio Ward who shot him; while Anthony McDonagh said he was shot by Patrick Ward.

The Ward brothers deny the charges.

More from Midlands News

Download Our App