AN GARDA SÍOCHÁNA and the Minister for Justice have echoed the nation’s sentiments of shock and sadness following the death of a Detective Garda in Louth last night.
The Garda Press Office has confirmed that Adrian Donohoe was on duty in Dundalk when he was injured in a shooting incident at the Lordship Credit Union at about 9.30pm.
He died a short time later.
A statement said:
It is with profound sadness that we announce the death of Detective Garda Adrian Donohoe attached to the Detective Unit in Dundalk.
Speaking at Garda Headquarters, Commissioner Martin Callinan said he was “deeply saddened”.
“Detective Garda Donohoe died as a result of injuries sustained in the course of his duty following a shooting incident in Dundalk last night. At this time my thoughts and prayers and those of the entire force are with the family, friends and close colleagues of Adrian.
“Ar dheis láimh Dé go raibh a anam.”
Gardaí believe four men left the scene in a dark-coloured car after a number of shots were fired. An appeal for witnesses has been issued.
Alan Shatter also issued a statement on hearing the news of what he described as a ‘dreadful and brutal murder’.
“The Irish people rightly have great respect and admiration for members of An Garda Síochána and the work they do in protecting the community,” he continued.
They will share my revulsion and horror that a Garda has so tragically lost his life in the course of his duties.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends and colleagues of Adrian, who lost his life in carrying out his duty in the best traditions of the brave men and women of An Garda Síochána.
“I know that An Garda Síochána will spare no effort in ensuring that those responsible are brought to justice. In doing so, they have the unswerving support of the Government and Irish people at this very difficult time.”
The Garda Representative Association said it was “deeply shocked and saddened by the horrific news” of the shooting of a colleague. They offered their thoughts and prayers to the Detective’s family.
GRA President John Parker said:
This dreadful news is what every police family fears. At this time the wider garda family will be doing everything possible to support the late garda’s relatives and loved ones, friends and colleagues. There is a deep shock across An Garda Síochána – and Irish society.
“This heinous crime highlights the dangers gardaí face in the course of their duties and must be rightly condemned. We urge anyone who has any information, however small it may seem, to contact gardaí in Dundalk or the confidential Crimestoppers line 1800 25 00 25.”
Fianna Fáil and Sinn Féin have also expressed their sympathies.
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