Lurgan, Northern Ireland – A man accused of the murder of Odhrán Kelly has been denied bail following a court appearance in Craigavon Magistrates’ Court.
Shane Harte, 31, appeared via videolink from Maghaberry and is charged with the murder of Mr. Kelly, who was found near a burnt-out car in the Edward Street area of Lurgan on December 3.
A total of five people are charged in connection with Mr. Kelly’s murder, with the court hearing details of the investigation. Police visited a block of flats on Edward Street in relation to the burnt-out vehicle, discovering what was described as a “horrific scene” inside one of the flats.
Harte was later arrested and interviewed by police, during which it was established that his initial account of the events was proven to be false. CCTV evidence showed discrepancies in his statement, further complicating the case.
The court also heard details of the timeline leading up to the murder, with evidence suggesting that Harte and the victim were present in the flat where the attack took place. A police detective sergeant outlined various reasons why bail should be denied, including the violent nature of the attack and Harte’s suspected involvement.
Throughout the hearing, objections to bail were raised, citing concerns about Harte’s potential to commit further offenses and his history of violence. The judge ultimately refused the bail application, setting the case to be heard again in early March.
This case has brought various details to light, shedding new insight into the events leading up to Mr. Kelly’s tragic murder. The decision to deny bail highlights the severity of the charges and the potential risks that the defendant’s release could pose. The investigation continues, with more details expected to emerge in the coming hearings.