Tattoo Artist Convicted of Chef’s Murder in Cobh

A 31-year-old man has been convicted of murder in connection with a fatal assault that took place in Cobh, County Cork, in March 2024. The Central Criminal Court delivered the verdict on Tuesday following a four-day trial.

Dylan Scannell, a tattoo artist from O’Rahilly Street in Cobh, was found guilty of the murder of 33-year-old Ian Baitson, a local chef and father of two. While Scannell had admitted to the lesser charge of manslaughter, he denied murder. The jury, comprised of six men and six women, rejected his defense and returned a unanimous guilty verdict after four hours and five minutes of deliberation.

Details of the Attack and Legal Proceedings

The incident occurred on 15 March 2024, when Baitson was assaulted with a sword, resulting in severe injuries, including what medical experts described as a near-complete amputation of his left leg. The wound caused rapid and extensive blood loss. Despite medical intervention, Baitson died in hospital four days later, on 19 March.

The trial heard graphic evidence of the nature of the attack and its aftermath. The prosecution argued that the use of a bladed weapon and the severity of the injuries indicated intent to kill or cause serious harm, which was central to securing a murder conviction.

Following the verdict, Ms Justice Eileen Creedon formally thanked the jurors for their service and informed them they would be exempt from further jury duty for the next five years. She confirmed that Scannell would receive a mandatory life sentence, in accordance with Irish law governing murder convictions.

The final sentencing hearing is scheduled for 11 July 2025. On that date, the court will also hear victim impact statements from Baitson’s family, offering them the opportunity to express how his death has affected their lives.

Scannell remains in custody pending sentencing. The case has drawn attention locally due to the brutal nature of the attack and its tragic outcome.