Inquest into Newtownabbey killings expected in June

An inquest into three deaths in Newtownabbey linked to Kenneth McClean‑Flanagan is expected to be listed for the week commencing 15 June; a further preliminary hearing is scheduled for 23 February.

An inquest into deaths in Newtownabbey linked to Kenneth McClean‑Flanagan is expected to be listed for the week commencing 15 June. The events being examined took place in March 2021 and involved the deaths of Karen McClean‑Flanagan and Stacey Knell; McClean‑Flanagan also died. The case prompted calls in the Northern Ireland Assembly for unified action on gender‑based violence. Preliminary hearings have been held at Belfast's Laganside Courthouse since March 2025 and parties to the inquest are legally represented. Key details: - Officials say Kenneth McClean‑Flanagan, 26, is believed to have caused the deaths of his mother Karen McClean‑Flanagan, 50, and Stacey Knell, 30, in March 2021, and later died himself. - Several preliminary hearings have taken place at Laganside Courthouse and the coroner has received updates on disclosure of material and evidence. - Coroner Anne‑Louise Toal has voiced a hope to list the full inquest for the week commencing 15 June, and another preliminary hearing is scheduled for 23 February. Summary: The deaths prompted calls in the Northern Ireland Assembly for action on gender‑based violence. Officials are progressing disclosure and witness considerations and aim to list the inquest for the week commencing 15 June, with a further preliminary hearing on 23 February.