A jury consisting of five men and seven women was selected today to hear the trial of Alan Vial (39) and Nikita Burns (22) in connection with the alleged murder of Robert “Robin” Wilkin. The trial is being held at the Central Criminal Court in Dublin.
Vial and Burns are accused of murdering Wilkin on June 25, 2023, in Co Donegal. Ms. Burns, from Carrick, Co Donegal, has pleaded not guilty to the charge of murder but guilty to impeding the apprehension or prosecution of another person involved in an arrestable offence. Vial, of Drumanoo Head, Killybegs, Co Donegal, has also pleaded not guilty.
Mr. Justice David Keane, addressing the jury, noted that the case had received significant publicity, particularly due to allegations that Wilkin’s body was disposed of by being thrown over the cliffs at Sliabh Liag. He advised the jurors to disclose any prior knowledge of the case or individuals involved, as they may be ineligible to serve.
The trial is set to begin tomorrow and is expected to last up to three weeks.