Couple face trial over killing of love rival at drug-taking Belfast squat
A couple are to stand trial accused of killing a love rival at their drug-taking squat in south Belfast, a judge ordered today.
Jade Harrison, 36, and Colm McClenaghan, 34, have been jointly charged with the murder of Kevin Davidson in July 2024.
The defendants, who both remain in custody, appeared remotely at Belfast Magistrates’ Court for a preliminary enquiry into the case against them.
Mr Davidson’s body was discovered at the rear of the house on Donegall Avenue following a 10-day missing person investigation.
The remains of the 34-year-old had been hidden under a sleeping bag and bin liners in the back yard.
Harrison and McClenaghan deny any involvement in his death.
The trio were said to have spent weeks squatting together at the property described as a base for injecting drugs, previous courts heard.
Post-mortem findings indicated a ligature had been tightly applied around Mr Davidson’s neck, causing fractures to small bones, with weights then used to keep his body concealed.
Air fresheners, aftershave and perfume recovered from the scene may have been an attempt to cover any smells, detectives have alleged.
Harrison and McClenaghan insisted they were unaware Mr Davidson was lying dead at the rear of the house.
During accounts to police they claimed he left the property after walking in on them having sex.
In court today both defendants confirmed they understood the murder charge against them, but declined to give evidence or call any witnesses at this stage.
District Judge Anne Marshall backed prosecution submissions that they each have a prima facie case to answer.
Granting the Crown’s application, she told them: “You will both be returned to Belfast Crown Court, your lawyers will let you know the date for that in due course.”
Harrison and McClenaghan were remanded in continuing custody to appear again at a future arraignment hearing.