Jury Deliberates Verdict in Sliabh Liag Murder Trial

The jury in the Sliabh Liag murder trial has begun deliberations regarding the fate of Alan Vial and Nikita Burns, both accused of murdering 66-year-old Robert Wilkin, whose body was found off Donegal cliffs in June 2023. The prosecution argues that the pair engaged in a joint enterprise to cause serious harm to Wilkin, with each defendant blaming the other for the killing. Vial claims he was assaulted by Wilkin, asserting that Burns struck the victim with a rock, while Burns contends she was intoxicated and exaggerated her involvement. Judge Paul McDermott has instructed the jury to consider alternative verdicts, including the possibility of impeding prosecution if they find one not guilty but believe the other is guilty. The trial has drawn significant attention, with verdict expectations emerging after nearly a month of proceedings. The jury is expected to return with a verdict soon.