The trial of a Dublin man accused of murdering his 15-year-old girlfriend by hitting her over the head with a stone ended dramatically yesterday when the jury was discharged following legal argument. Mr Keith Kelly (22), of Colepark Drive, Ballyfermot, had denied murder but admitted the manslaughter of Ms Melanie Gleeson, Colepark Road, in the grounds of the Dominican Convent, Ballyfermot, on October 31st, 1995. He claimed a defence of provocation.
Dismissing the jury of four women and eight men, Mr Justice Smith said a "legal matter has arisen and in the circumstances I am obliged to discharge you".
