Charges of attempting to cause Grievous Bodily Harm in death case withdrawn by PPS

Coleraine Courthouse

Ciaran Shiels of Madden & Finucane Solicitors said:

“We confirm that at Coleraine District Court this morning all remaining charges have been withdrawn against our client Matthew Stirling.

“This case began amid lurid media reportage that the deceased was murdered in the course of a grisly and brutal hammer attack.

“Despite never having been charged with murder or manslaughter Mr Stirling served the equivalent of an eight month custodial sentence before being granted bail with strict conditions, including having to leave his home town of Coleraine.

“In interview Matthew Stirling, whilst denying assaulting the deceased in any way, expressed his sympathy to his family as both families had known each other for many years.

“We welcome the PPS decision to finally bring this tragic matter to a close.”