Limerick, Sunday. In a chilling turn of events, the ongoing investigation into the tragic murder of Jane Treacy took a significant step forward as five individuals—Michael Doolan, James Doolan, Ellen Organ, Elizabeth Doolan, and Margaret Quinn—were charged and remanded for the wilful murder of the 45-year-old married woman from Palmerstown in Limerick. The distressing incident occurred on the night of the 16th of last month.

Prosecuted by Mr J. S. Gaffney, C.S., and represented by Mr H. O’S. Moran, solicitor, the courtroom heard compelling testimonies from witnesses shedding light on the circumstances leading up to the fatal incident.

The first witness, Bridget Creamer, the sister of the deceased, recounted a troubling encounter three weeks before the tragedy. Margaret Quinn, one of the accused, allegedly made ominous remarks at that time, expressing a desire to harm Jane Treacy. Bridget Creamer expressed her belief that the visit to a location called “The Sawyers” on the night of the incident was intended for the sinister purpose of causing harm to her sister.

Additional testimony from witnesses revealed heated confrontations and threats made by the accused against the deceased in the weeks leading up to the fatal night. The courtroom was filled with a palpable sense of tension as details emerged, painting a grim picture of the events that unfolded on the fateful night.

John Watson, an eyewitness, detailed seeing the accused enter Jane Treacy’s house on the night of the 16th of August, accompanied by ominous statements. The witness recounted the distressing sight of Jane lying in a laneway, covered in blood and seemingly lifeless.

Further evidence presented by law enforcement officials detailed the arrests of the accused and their subsequent statements, with each providing their version of events. The court heard statements ranging from denial of involvement to admissions of guilt.

The proceedings left a heavy atmosphere in the courtroom, emphasizing the gravity of the charges and the profound impact of this tragedy on the community. The accused individuals were formally sent for trial and will face further legal proceedings at the upcoming Assizes for the region. The legal process will continue to unfold as the community grapples with the repercussions of this harrowing incident, underscoring the importance of a thorough and just legal examination.

Weekly Freeman’s Journal – Saturday 09 September 1911