Northern Ireland

Regency Hotel accused Kevin Murray ‘being advised on end of life care'

Gardaí allege Kevin Murray can be connected to the scene of the gangland murder of David Byrne by CCTV footage and photographs
Gardaí allege Kevin Murray can be connected to the scene of the gangland murder of David Byrne by CCTV footage and photographs Gardaí allege Kevin Murray can be connected to the scene of the gangland murder of David Byrne by CCTV footage and photographs

A CO Tyrone man fighting extradition over his alleged role in a gangland murder at a Dublin hotel is being advised on end of life care, a court has heard.

Kevin Murray's motor neurone disease (MND) is irreversible and deteriorating at such a rapid rate that he is unlikely to ever stand trial on charges linked to the killing of David Byrne, his lawyers argued.

Barrister Desmond Fahy said he depends on a tube for feeding: "The active matter under consideration now is whether he be marked not suitable for resuscitation."

Murray (46) was detained at his home in Townsend Street in Strabane last September under a European Arrest Warrant issued by authorities in the Republic.

He is wanted in connection with a fatal gun attack at Dublin's Regency Hotel on February 5 2016 which ignited a deadly feud between members of the rival Kinahan and Hutch gangs.

Murray is being sought over alleged offences of murder, possession of a firearm with intent, and possession of a firearm in suspicious circumstances.

It was previously claimed in court that he had stayed overnight at the hotel in preparation for his alleged role in the shooting and gardai allege he can be clearly identified on CCTV footage and photographs.

Murray remains in hospital and a judge at Belfast Recorders' Court is assessing his fitness to stand trial before any decision on whether to order his extradition.

Proceedings were adjourned to give Irish authorities time to decide if they want to instruct medical experts to carry out assessments.