Book of Evidence served on man accused of murdering Cork father of three 

A book of evidence was served on Thursday on a 56-year-old Cork man accused of murdering a 38-year-old father of three almost a year ago.

The book of evidence was served on Kieran Long, just over a week after he was arrested by Detective Garda Mick Dolan and brought before Cork District Court.

The charge states that on November 16, 2025, at Hollyville, Hollyhill, Cork, in the District Court area of Cork City, district number 19, he did murder one Mark O’Connell, contrary to Common Law.

The accused man, Kieran Long of 65 Ardcullen, Hollyhill, appeared by video link from prison. His solicitor, Shane Collins-Daly, confirmed that he had received the book of evidence at Cork District Court on behalf of the defendant.

On the application of Sergeant David Fleming, Judge David Waters sent the case forward to the present sittings of the Central Criminal Court. It will then be a matter for that court to decide what date is to be set for a trial of the case.

In accordance with procedure, Judge Waters gave Mr Long what is known as the alibi warning. In effect, this requires an accused person to give the State notice of any witnesses that may be called if there is to be reliance on an alibi defence.

It was reported at the time that the deceased man sustained stab wounds as a result of which he died.

Kieran Long was arrested on Tuesday night, October 6, taken to Gurranabraher garda station and charged, and then brought before Cork District Court on October 7.

The district court does not have jurisdiction to hear a bail application on a murder charge. Judge David Waters remanded Kieran Long in custody until October 14.

However, because of the public service strike the matter could not be dealt with yesterday and it was re-listed instead for today.

Defence solicitor, Shane Collins-Daly, said on behalf of Kieran Long when the case first came before the court: “He understands the district court cannot grant bail in this case which is unfortunate as he has co-operated from the outset and has instructed me to make an application for bail in the High Court.

"He will be pleading not guilty. He has maintained his innocence at all times on this allegation.”