Man charged with 'causing serious harm' following fatal stabbing

A MAN has been charged with “causing serious harm” after a fatal stabbing in the Co Tipperary village of Lattin last Sunday

Richard Higgins (41), New Houses, Lattin, appeared at Tipperary District Court yesterday charged with causing serious harm to Seán Murphy (29) who lived next door, on January 17th.

Mr Murphy’s body was found outside his house by gardaí at about 10pm on Sunday night. Mr Higgins, who had moved to the area from Limerick, was arrested at the scene shortly afterwards.

Det Sgt John Long told the court Mr Higgins made “no comment” when he was arrested and charged with the offence.

Mr Higgins, who is unemployed and lives with his partner and three children, was granted free legal aid. An application for bail was opposed by gardaí.

Supt John Courtney told the court that he objected to bail because of “the seriousness of the charge” which carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.

He also said there was a likelihood of interference with witnesses as Mr Higgins lived next door to the victim and there was a history of animosity between the men.

Supt Courtney also said that Mr Higgins may face “more serious charges” and revealed that at the time of the offence, Mr Higgins was on bail in relation to a road traffic offence.

Judge Mary Martin refused bail and remanded him in custody to appear again on Friday.

Mr Murphy’s funeral is expected to take place later this week. He is survived by his partner Paula Hassett, along with their two children, a son and daughter and by his parents, Seán snr and Peggie Murphy, who live in Tipperary town.