CORK, Ireland, — Stryker, the US medical technology company, is facing criminal proceedings in Ireland over alleged health and safety breaches linked to a workplace incident that claimed the life of a contract worker at its County Cork facility more than three years ago.
The case concerns John Murphy, 41, a married father from Watergrasshill, County Cork, who sustained extensive burns during an incident at Stryker’s plant in Carrigtwohill on April 18, 2023. Murphy was employed by Apleona, a facilities management company carrying out contract work at the site. <Cite refs={[“turn857699news1″,”turn857699search14”]}/>
According to reports published by Irish media, Murphy was working on the factory roof when a suspected explosion occurred. He suffered severe burns affecting approximately 75% of his body. Although he managed to get down from the roof, he later became unresponsive.
Murphy was initially treated at Cork University Hospital before being transferred to the specialist burns unit at St James’s Hospital in Dublin. He died on June 9, 2023, nearly two months after the incident. Another worker was also injured. <Cite refs={[“turn857699news8″,”turn857699news15”]}/>
The Health and Safety Authority investigated the circumstances of the incident and submitted its investigation file to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions in October 2025. The Director of Public Prosecutions subsequently recommended criminal proceedings against Stryker over alleged breaches of health and safety legislation, according to the Irish Examiner. <Cite refs={[“turn857699news1″,”turn857699search14”]}/>
Company representatives have been summoned to appear before Midleton District Court, with the case listed for its first mention on October 22, 2026. The specific charge or charges are expected to be outlined at that stage. The proceedings concern allegations, and the court process will determine how the case advances.
Murphy’s family has expressed frustration over the length of time taken to reach this point. At a recent inquest hearing, the family’s solicitor raised concerns about further delays, while the coroner acknowledged the family’s distress and explained that the investigation process limited the court’s ability to proceed.
In March 2024, Murphy’s relatives also initiated High Court proceedings against Stryker Ireland Limited and Apleona Ireland Limited over his death. <Cite refs={[“turn857699news1″,”turn857699news7”]}/>
The case has renewed attention on workplace safety, contractor protection and accountability following serious industrial incidents. Further details are expected as the court proceedings progress.