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Killarney woman Miriam Burns (75) was found dead in her home in August 2022
Miriam and Billy Burns
A Kerry man who is charged with the murder of his mother in her Killarney home is to face trial next week.
Billy Burns formerly of Arlington Lodge, Tralee, is charged with a single count of the murder of his mother, Miriam Burns (75), in August 2022.
Ms Burns was found dead at her home in Ardshanavooley estate in Killarney on August 15, 2022.
The late Miriam Burns.
The grandmother – who was known as ‘Killarney’s smiling lady’ because of her cheerful disposition – was found dead in the sitting room of her home.
She was well-known in Killarney for her preference for cycling around the town.
Mrs Burns was discovered when a relative, who is based overseas, became concerned at his inability to contact her. The man rang an Ardshanavooley neighbour, and he went with another neighbour to check on her welfare.
Neighbours along with Mr Burns family are among the extensive list of witnesses listed for the trial which is expected to last up to three weeks.
Billy Burns pictured outside Killarney District Court
Approximately 150 witnesses are expected to be called and psychiatric reports will also be provided with evidence from the prosecution and the defence in this regard.
Mr Burns was sent forward for trial to Central Criminal Court in April 2023 and the trial is now due to start next Monday, November 10 in Dublin.
Mr Burns is represented by solicitor Padraig O’Connell and Eimear Griffin as well as Senior Counsel Anthony Sammon and Barrister Katie O’Connell. Legal aid was granted to Mr O’Connell and for a senior counsel and junior counsel for the trial.
