A teenage boy who murdered a woman in County Offaly last year has been handed a life sentence.

The boy, who cannot be named because he is under 18, will have his sentence reviewed after fifteen years.

Lorna Woodnutt suffered catastrophic injuries after the then 16-year-old attacked her with a sledgehammer and a lump hammer; both of which could be seen next to her body in a 17-second video, which he then uploaded to Snapchat.

A bloodied knife was also found in her kitchen.

An analysis of the boy’s browser history revealed internet searches in relation to hammer attacks and a particular interest in the behaviour of psychopaths.

Due to his age, the mandatory life sentence for a murder conviction does not apply in the case; however, after considering the viciousness of what he described as a “cowardly and brutal” attack, the judge felt a life sentence was appropriate.

Ms Woodnutt was one of seven women who died in violent circumstances in Ireland last year. 

Main image: Lorna Woodnutt.