Courts

Man (23) charged with murdering his brother-in-law in Sallins, Co Kildare

Valeriu Melnic accused of stabbing Ion Daghi (39), originally from Moldova, after dispute during family gathering

The scene of the fatal stabbing in Sallins, Co Kildare. Photograph: Stephen Collins/Collins Photos
The scene of the fatal stabbing in Sallins, Co Kildare. Photograph: Stephen Collins/Collins Photos
Tue May 14 2024 - 06:19

A 23-year-old has been charged with murdering his brother-in-law in Co Kildare on Sunday.

Valeriu Melnic (23), of Calliaghstown Lower, Rathcoole, Co Dublin, appeared before Naas District Court late on Monday over the death of Ion Daghi (39) at The Close, Sallins Park.

Det Garda Enda Coleman said Mr Melnic, a stone mason, remained silent after being cautioned and charged. He said it would be alleged that the fatal incident happened at a family gathering attended by five adults and three children.

It is alleged that some of those present went to bed and a dispute arose between the accused and the deceased, who had been drinking whiskey. The court heard the row calmed down but reignited at about 3am.

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Det Garda Coleman said it will be alleged that the defendant went to the kitchen and took a knife. Mr Daghi then went to the kitchen and an altercation took place and he was stabbed once in the chest with a 30cm-long knife, he said.

The deceased’s 12-year-old daughter called the emergency services, the court heard.

The defendant was granted free legal aid and this was extended to cover the services of a Russian translator. The proceedings were translated on Monday night for the defendant by an interpreter.

Mr Melnic was remanded in custody to appear in court again on Thursday by video-link. The judge also ordered a psychological report at the request of a defence solicitor.