Destination Newry News - Day 4 Of Murder Trial - Maire Rankin

Belfast Crown Court sat for day 4 of the trial into the murder of Mrs

. Rankin on Thursday 22nd September 2011. Mrs. Rankin, an 81 year old pensioner from Newry was found dead in her home on Christmas morning 2008. The woman accused of murdering Mrs Rankin is her neighbour, pharmacist Karen Walsh aged 45.

The Court heard evidence from the State Pathologist of Northern Ireland, Professor Jack Crane. Professor Crane advised the Court that the post mortem examination had suggested that Mrs Rankin had been sexually assaulted and that she had suffered 15 broken ribs. Professor Crane told the Court that he believed that Mrs Rankin had been punched or hit with a blunt object causing her injuries. It was Professor Cranes opinion that the pattern of bruising found on Mrs Rankins chin was consistent with the crown of thorns from the figure of Jesus on the crucifix that Mrs. Rankin kept beside her bed, and what the police believe is the murder weapon. The Prosecution has claimed that they can link Ms. Walsh to the crucifix by DNA evidence.

When asked about the rib fractures which Mrs. Rankin suffered, Professor Crane advised the Court that he had no doubt that Mrs. Rankins injuries were indicative of a serious assault and if his understanding was correct that no attempts were made to revive Mrs. Rankin, one has to assume that the rib fractures were caused during the assault.

Under cross examination by Ms. Walshs defence team, the pathologist Mr. Peter Irvine refuted the suggestion by the defence that the bruising to Mrs. Rankins face could have been caused by her nebuliser during a fall. Whilst Mr. Irvine said there was a distinct possibility that Mrs. Rankin could have died of a heart attack, it was simply inconceivable to suggest that all her injuries could have been caused if her hair had been pulled and she fell over, a scenario which had been suggested by the Defence.

The Court also heard initial police interviews with Ms. Walsh. Ms. Walsh was questioned by police on Boxing Day however wasnt arrested until 27th December 2008. Despite having previously suggested that she went to Mrs. Rankins home on Christmas Eve night and stayed for 30 minutes, it emerged that Ms Walsh visited Mrs. Rankin much later. Ms Walsh told police that she went to Mrs. Rankins home around midnight and stayed for two and a half hours. She stated that she drank neat vodka from the bottle in the company of Mrs. Rankin and helped her with her medical equipment.

Ms Walshs husband Mr. Richard Durkin advised that he looked through the window of Mrs. Rankins home in the early hours of the morning and seen his wife sitting on the sofa in the living room. Ms Walsh claimed that she then went home, slept in her clothes and awoke the next morning to learn of Mrs. Rankins death. She stated Sweet divine, what will I do. I was the last person in there; they are probably going to think it was me.

The trial continues.

by: James P Martin

POST COMMENT

Destination Newry News - Maire Rankin Murder: Case Nearing Conclusion Why Get Glass Partitions For Office Or Private Residences Get Best Options Of Traditional Furniture At Cheshire Furniture Retailer Store The Benefits Of An Anti-theft System On Your Car Working With A Laminate Floor Installer Learn More About Hallam Driving School Hallam Driving School: Tips For Choosing Reputable Driving Schools How To Maintain A Laminate Floor How To Install Laminate Floor Why You Need A Managed Document Review Team The Ultimate Spa For Your Weekend Extravagance Getting Fluid Checks On A Regular Basis Northants Taekwondo Is A Winner