Teenager Sentenced for Removing Murder Weapon from Dublin Restaurant
An 18-year-old from Dublin has been sentenced for removing a murder weapon from a restaurant scene last Christmas Eve. Jaures Kumbu, from Brookhaven Grove in Blanchardstown, admitted to picking up a submachine gun after it was dropped by the gunman, Tristan Sherry, who was subsequently killed in the attack. Jason Hennessy Senior, 48, was fatally shot during the incident at Browne’s Steakhouse.
CCTV Footage Shows Chaotic Scene
CCTV footage played at the Special Criminal Court captured the horrifying event. The footage shows Mr. Sherry and another armed man entering the restaurant and approaching a group that included Mr. Hennessy and Mr. Kumbu, who were enjoying a Christmas meal. Mr. Hennessy can be seen holding a child when Mr. Sherry opens fire. Mr. Hennessy attempts to fight back, wrestles with the gunman, and eventually forces him to the ground, causing him to drop the submachine gun. In the chaos, Mr. Kumbu picks up the weapon and leaves the restaurant with it.
Murder Weapon Never Recovered
Gardaí searched Mr. Kumbu’s home on Christmas morning and again in January, but he was not there, and the murder weapon has never been recovered. Defense counsel Garret Baker argued that Mr. Kumbu, despite committing an offense, was likely in a state of terror, just like everyone else in the restaurant. He acknowledged that Mr. Kumbu should have handed the weapon to the police but argued that his actions were born out of fear.
Teenager Expresses Remorse
In a letter to the court, Mr. Kumbu expressed remorse and apologized for his actions. He stated that the experience was “very scary and terrifying” and that he wanted to avoid wasting court time. He acknowledged the possibility of a prison sentence but hoped it would be relatively short. Mr. Justice Kerida Naidoo announced that the three judges would sentence Mr. Kumbu at a later date. He was remanded in custody until December 2nd.