A juror in the trial of a man accused of murdering Detective Garda Adrian Donohoe has been excused, after expressing concerns for his health due to the COVID-19 crisis.

Aaron Brady of New Road, Crossmaglen, Co Armagh denies the capital murder of Detective Donohoe and has also pleaded not guilty to a robbery charge.

Detective Donohoe died instantly when he was shot at close range during an armed robbery outside Lordship Credit Union in Co Louth in January 2013.

The prosecution claims Aaron Brady, who was 21-years-old at the time, was the shooter, and he is also accused of robbing €7,000.

Portrait of Detective Garda Adrian Donohoe. Picture by: Julien Behal/PA Archive/PA Images

The trial began in late January, but it has been over two months since the jurors have heard any evidence.

When they returned on Wednesday morning, they were spread out across two sections of the courtroom to allow for social distancing.

Mr Justice Michael White told them a juror who expressed concerns for his health as the COVID-19 crisis continues has been discharged, and he invited the remaining 13 jurors to bring any concerns they may have to his attention.

The prosecuting barrister Brendan Grehan then told them the trial will be looking at CCTV and phone evidence for the next few days.

While witnesses from New York will give evidence via video link later this month.

Reporting by Frank Greaney