Co Tyrone man to face murder trial over death of Stephen Holmes in Strabane
A man is to stand trial charged with the murder of Stephen Holmes in Co Tyrone, a judge ordered today.
Mr Holmes, 31, died in hospital following an alleged attack at a house in the Beechmount Village area of Strabane in February last year.
Dylan McCrossan, 32, appeared remotely from custody at Belfast Magistrates’ Court today accused of his murder.
Proceedings were relocated after his brother had boiling water thrown over him before a previous scheduled hearing inside Strabane courthouse last month.
Defence solicitor Ciaran Shiels said the switch was due to concerns for the safety of his client’s family.
During the preliminary enquiry hearing Dylan McCrossan, from Beechmount Village in Strabane, confirmed that he understood the charge against him.
Asked if he wanted to call witnesses or give evidence, he replied: “Not at this time.”
District Judge Natasha Fitzsimons backed prosecution submissions that he has a prima facie case to answer. No further details about the alleged circumstances surrounding Mr Holmes' death were disclosed during the brief hearing.
Granting the Crown’s application, Judge Fitzsimons ordered: “The accused is to be returned to the Crown Court (for trial) on a date to be fixed.”
McCrossan remains in custody and will next appear for arraignment at a court venue still to be confirmed.