Tributes flow for young man killed after being deliberately run down in Ballymun

Dublin Live

5 hours ago

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A young man died after being deliberately run down by a car in the early hours of Saturday morning in what is believed to be part of a vicious gangland feud.
Kevin Kelly, who was in his early 20s, was killed instantly after he was struck by the vehicle on Balbutcher Lane in Ballymun, North Dublin.
It is understood there is an ongoing feud in the area between two gangs which are made up of mostly young men in their early twenties.
Gardaí and emergency services arrived on Balbutcher Lane around 5am and Mr Kelly was pronounced dead at the scene. The road was closed afterwards and technical examinations were carried out by garda forensic experts.
(Image: Philip Fitzpatrick)
Kevin Kelly was well known in the area and is believed to have been aligned with one group which was feuding with another gang.
Local Fianna Fail Councillor Keith Connolly described the incident as a tragedy and added that the deceased man's home had been attacked during the week.
He said: "As far as I know this wasn't an accident...his house was targeted during the week. There is complete shock in the area and anyone who has any information should contact An Garda Siochana.
(Image: Philip Fitzpatrick)
"My sincere condolences to his family and friends, this was a terrible thing to happen. We have a meeting on Monday with the Guards and I'm sure they will have an update then."
It is understood that the feud involves one gang based around the Poppintree area of Ballymun and another in Shangan.
Social Democrat Councillor Mary Callaghan said the entire community is in shock.
She said: "It is a tragic loss and the whole community is feeling it. My heartfelt condolences go out to Kevin's family and friends at this very difficult time."
Pals of Mr Kelly took to social media to pay tribute to him and condemn those who may have been responsible for his death.
One friend stated on Facebook: "Rip my little friend, too good for this life kiddo gonna miss you terribly.
"Always a smile on the worst days, always after an owl spud some memories with you bro around me since you're a baby. Better be with the boys watching over us all."
Gardaí have appealed for witnesses to come forward. In particular, they are looking to speak with people who were in the Balbutcher Lane and Balcurris Park areas, between 4am and 5am, including those with camera or dash-cam footage.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Ballymun Garda Station at 01 6664400, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda station.
This is the second man to die this week after being deliberately run down by a car. Mircea Rostas, 33, was pronounced dead at the scene on Railway Street, Balbriggan last Monday night after being hit by a car. A man has since appeared in court in connection with the incident.
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