Investigation into missing Kerry farmer Michael Gaine upgraded to homicide probe
Gardai probing the disappearance of Kerry farmer Michael Gaine have upgraded the case to a homicide investigation.
The Kenmare man was reported missing on Friday, March 21 and was last seen on the day beforehand on March 20.
Gardai said cops at Killarney Gardai Station have undertaken 320 formal enquires and have taken nearly 130 witness statements.
In addition, the garda team, which is being led by a Senior Investigating Officer, recovered around 2,200 hours of CCTV/dash-cam footage and conducted extensive searches since he first went missing.
In a statement, Gardai said: "Based on the entirety of the information available to the investigation team at Killarney Garda station, An Garda Síochána can confirm today Tuesday, 29th April 2025 that this missing person investigation has now been reclassified as a homicide investigation, and a formal criminal investigation has now commenced.
"An Garda Síochána continue to keep Michael's family fully informed and they have been updated as to the change in status of this investigation.
"An Garda Síochána continue to support Michael's family through a Family Liaison Officer as they come to terms with this update.
"Despite the extensive enquiries carried out so far, An Garda Síochána have not recovered Michael's remains.
"Gardaí are seeking information from anyone who can assist us in bringing Michael back to his family.
"An Garda Síochána appeal to any person who may have any information about what happened to Michael on Thursday, 20th March 2025 to contact the Garda Investigation Team.
"There are person or persons who know what happened on the 20th of March 2025.
"If you have not been in a position to speak to An Garda Síochána about the information you have, or have already spoken to An Garda Síochána but have more information that you can provide - An Garda Síochána is appealing to you to come forward with that information.
"Information received will be treated in the strictest confidence.
"The Garda Investigation Team can be contacted at Killarney Garda Station on 064 667 1160, the Garda Confidential Line at 1800 666 111, or speak with any member of An Garda Síochána at any Garda Station nationwide."
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