The Deputy State Pathologist, Dr Marie Cassidy, has told an inquest into the death of new age traveller in County Leitrim that he suffered 71 injuries and died as a result of multiple blunt force trauma.
Elliott Robertson died on 6 October 1998 after what the coroner described as 'a particularly vicious attack' at a new age traveller's camp in Boihy, Co Leitrim.
Two other new age travellers were convicted of his manslaughter and received five-year suspended jail sentences. A third accused committed suicide before the court hearing.
Today in Sligo, Detective Alo Farraher told the resumed inquest into Mr Robertsons death that this was a tragic case and that a dispute had been on-going for some time, culminating in a serious disturbance on the night Mr Robertson sustained his injuries. He died the next day in Sligo General Hospital.
Dr Cassidy said she counted 71 blunt force injuries on Mr Robertsons body, which could have been inflicted by a number of weapons including a pick axe handle, a spade and an iron bar.
Mr Robertson also suffered a number of fractures and other injuries, which could have been caused by punches and kicks.
The coroner, Dr Des Moran, was told that the Gardaí were having difficulty contacting new age traveller witnesses, some of whom were in England.
The solicitor representing the Robertson family was not present but has indicated to Gardaí that he wants other witnesses questioned and the inquest was adjourned to hear the reasons why he wants them called.
Dr Moran said a conclusion could have been brought about today and he will have to consider the relevance of more witnesses given that the criminal case has been concluded.
