Man charged with murder of pensioner at special night-time court sitting in Limerick

A man was charged with the murder of pensioner Michael Hayes at a special night-time sitting of Limerick District Court on Saturday night.

The accused - Philip Ambrose, aged 43, of no fixed abode - appeared before Judge Alec Gabbett shortly after 10pm.

Garda Aoife Quinn gave evidence of arresting, charging and cautioning the defendant.

Garda Quinn said she charged Mr Ambrose at 6.35pm at Henry Street garda station this Saturday with the murder of Mr Hayes, aged 71, contrary to Common Law at St Michael’s Court, Watergate, Limerick city on Thursday, July 10.

“He made no reply to the charge after caution,” said Garda Quinn.

READ NEXT: 'The kindest, most gentle soul' - Tributes pour in for 12-year-old girl who drowned in Tipperary

Turlough Herbert, solicitor for Mr Ambrose, said the question of bail does not arise. Applications for bail on murder charges can only be made before the High Court.

Mr Herbert made an application for legal aid on behalf of his client.

“He is on disability allowance,” said Mr Herbert.

Judge Gabbett granted free legal aid. The judge ordered a psychiatric evaluation of Mr Ambrose following an application by Mr Herbert.

“He does have a history of medication for mental illness,” said Mr Herbert.

Judge Gabbett remanded Mr Ambrose (pictured below being escorted into Limerick Courthouse) in custody to appear via video-link in Limerick District Court on Tuesday.

Mr Ambrose, who was wearing a navy jumper, grey T-shirt and black pants, did not speak during the brief procedural matter.

There was a heavy garda presence in court including Detective Superintendent Dermot O’Connor; Inspector Vinny Brick, senior investigating officer in the case; Inspector Marie Crowley, on behalf of the State; detectives and uniformed gardai.