A 60-year-old man appeared in court in Northern Ireland today charged with murdering his only son, with police highlighting a footprint found at the scene as evidence.
Kevin Fletcher (32), was found stabbed to death at his flat in Castle Street, Armagh, on September 3rd.
His father, also called Kevin, from Drumarg Park, Armagh, appeared at the Magistrates’ Court in Newry, Co Down, where he was charged with murder.
He was released on bail to appear in court again on September 28th.
Mr Fletcher, who has short white hair and wore glasses and a white shirt, spoke only to confirm that he understood the charges.
PSNI Det Sgt Stephen McIntosh told the court he could connect the accused to the killing. He said the murdered man suffered several stab wounds and that witnesses reported hearing cries for help from his home.
Det Sgt McIntosh old the court that a size eight shoeprint was found at the dead man’s home which matched shoes sold at a store in Armagh where the accused had shopped.
“We have not recovered the shoes that match that mark at this time,” he said.
The officer said there was no sign of a struggle at the murder scene and there was no forensic evidence against Fletcher. But he said police inquiries were ongoing.
Barrister for the accused, Conn O’Neill, said his client had a clear record and had co-operated with detectives.
He labelled the police case as weak and described Mr Fletcher as a former factory worker who had suffered ill-health. “His family are here supporting him today,” he said.
Mr Fletcher’s wife and daughter were joined in court by other supporters. The accused winked and smiled briefly at them during the hearing.
Police opposed bail, but it was granted with a number of conditions by District Judge Eamon King.
Mr Fletcher was ordered to appear in court in Armagh later this month.