Two More Suspects Charged in Fatal Dublin Christmas Eve Shooting
Two new suspects have been hit with murder charges over the deadly Christmas Eve shooting at a Dublin restaurant that claimed Tristan Sherry’s life. The case is now set for a non-jury trial at the Special Criminal Court.
Who’s Been Charged?
- David Amah, 18, from Dublin, faces murder charges.
- Michael Andrecut, 22, from Dublin 15, also charged with murder.
- Juares Kumbu, 18, charged solely with a firearms offence linked to removing the murder weapon.
Gardaí served the books of evidence on all three ahead of the trial.
Why a Non-Jury Trial?
The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) ordered the case be heard without a jury, citing concerns that ordinary courts are “inadequate to secure the effective administration of justice.”
Tristan Sherry, a father from Finglas, died from blunt-force head trauma at Browne’s Steakhouse in Blanchardstown. The violent attack followed a shooting that left Jason Hennessy Sr., 48, wounded by a submachine gun. Hennessy later died in hospital 11 days after the incident.
Court Drama and Evidence
At Cloverhill District Court, the accused were denied bail. Senior prosecutor Tom Conlon told Judge Alan Mitchell the DPP demands the Special Criminal Court try the trio.
Judge Mitchell approved the return-for-trial order and granted legal aid, insisting the defendants must notify the prosecution if they plan to use alibis. Gardaí have been instructed to hand over all interview recordings to the defence.
During the hearing, David Amah and Juares Kumbu stayed silent, while Michael Andrecut quipped “Nice one” when handed his evidence.
Detective Sergeant Mark Murphy gave evidence describing how two gunmen stormed the restaurant and fired shots. After the firearm was dropped, another individual picked it up and walked away. The group then launched a brutal assault on Sherry, even after the shooting stopped.
Defence Lines and Other Suspects
Michael Andrecut plans to claim self-defence at trial. Meanwhile, David Amah told Gardaí he panicked, fearing for his life.
The case also involves Noah Musueni and Wayne Deegan, both indicted for Sherry’s murder. Brandon Hennessy, son of the late Jason Hennessy Sr., faces charges including violent disorder and illegal firearm production.
The trial date is yet to be set. All accused remain in custody pending the hearing.
