A MAN accused of the murder of another man more than a year ago has been returned for trial at Belfast Crown Court.

Joseph Joyce (31), with an address of Clon Elagh, Londonderry but previously of Coolcullen Meadows, Enniskillen, is alleged to have murdered John Paul McDonagh on April 13, 2020.

He is further charged with wounding with intent to do grievous bodily harm, and two counts of possession of an offensive weapon in a public place, namely a darby wooden shaft with a curved blade, and a bottle containing ammonia, on April 11, 2020.

Mr. Joyce appeared at Enniskillen Magistrates Court on Monday for a preliminary enquiry.

Ellen Joyce (30), of Clon Elagh, Londonderry also appeared on Monday as she faces a charge of possession of an offensive weapon, namely a bottle containing ammonia, and two counts of common assault relating to April 11, 2020.

A Public Prosecution Service representative told the court there was a prima facie case for the pair to answer, which Deputy District Judge Greg McCourt agreed with.

Neither wished to say anything to the charges, give evidence, call witnesses or tender statements at the hearing.

The case was adjourned to be heard at the Crown Court sitting in Belfast at a later date, with both parties released on bail.

At a hearing last Wednesday, August 18, three defendants appeared in relation to the same incident.

Caroline McDonagh (25), of Meelmore Drive, Omagh; Gerard McDonagh (26), of Lisnafin Park, Strabane; and another male, who cannot be named due to his age, were also returned for trial in the Crown Court.

Caroline McDonagh is facing a charge of common assault, and Gerard Christopher McDonagh is charged with attempted grievous bodily harm with intent and two counts of possession of an offensive weapon in a public place.

The youth faces charges of possession of an offensive weapon in a public place, attempting to wound with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, and intent to encourage or assist in attempting grievous bodily harm.

The three were admitted to bail to appear again at Dungannon Crown Court on September 30.