Man (34) charged with murder of John O’Connor in New Ross, Co Wexford

Wayne Roche remanded in custody over death of 58-year-old in Cluain Fada estate on on December 31st last

John O'Connor was found dead at his home in New Ross, Wexford on December 31st, 2024
John O'Connor was found dead at his home in New Ross, Wexford on December 31st, 2024

A 34-year-old man appeared before a special sitting of Wexford District Court on Thursday charged with murder following a fatal assault in New Ross, Wexford.

Wayne Roche, formerly of Dominic Place, Waterford, and currently of no fixed address came before Judge John O’Leary.

He was charged under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act with the murder of John O’Connor in his home at Cluain Fada, New Ross on December 31st last.

Det Garda Conor Walsh gave evidence of arresting the accused at 2pm on Thursday. He told the court that when he cautioned Mr Roche in relation to the charge, the accused replied: “I didn’t murder anyone.”

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He said the application was for a remand in custody to appear before the court on Monday via video link.

Judge O’Leary said as he had no jurisdiction to grant bail given the seriousness of the charge. He granted the application for a remand in custody.

Donna Kelly, defence barrister, said Mr Roche is unemployed and she was making an application for free legal aid. Judge O’Leary granted the application.