2 days ago
Tributes paid after shock death of father-of-three following incident in Armagh
His death following what the PSNI are describing as 'an incident' has sent shockwaves throughout the local close-knit community
The Louth man who died after sustaining serious injuries in an incident in south Armagh in the early hours of Saturday May 31 has been named as James O'Connor, late of 2 Euston Street, Greenore and formerly of Rampark, Jenkinstown, Dundalk.
The 42 year-old builder was a member of a very well-known and highly respected family from the Cooley peninsula passed away on Wednesday June 4.
His heartbroken family said it was 'with great sadness' that they announced his 'tragic and unexpected death.'
He was predeceased by his father Jim in 2017 and his survived by partner Laura, his children James, Millie, and Lucy, his mother Phil, siblings Evanna, Ellen, and Tommy, aunts, uncles, and a large circle of relatives and friends.
The late James O'Connor
News in 90 Seconds - 6th June 2025
The notice on appealed to people to waiting until it was updated with details of the funeral arrangements and to 'respect the family's privacy in the interim.'
His death following what the PSNI are describing as 'an incident' has sent shockwaves throughout the close knit community on the Cooley peninsula and beyond, as well as the many who knew him through his work or his involvement with Dealgan Boxing Club in his younger days.
Shocked friends, neighbours, work mates and acquaintances have been paying tribute to him, remembering him as a friendly gentleman who could 'light up a room with his smile' and always made time for others.
"James was always up for the craic and a good laugh, often at his own expense,' one mourner remembered. 'Such a lovely fella with that cheeky smile and something funny always ready to go. Even if you hadn't seen him in years, he was always friendly like no time had passed. He'll be sorely missed by everyone who knew him.'
"Absolutely heartbreaking to hear of your passing James, you are a true gentlemen and always had a chat and smile. Your death is a devastating blow to the community. Thinking of your family at this sad time,' wrote a friend, while another offered her sympathy to his family, saying 'I am so sad to hear of the death of James - he was such a kind and gentle person and always had a smile when you met him, no matter what.'
A former schoolmate said she had ' so many fond memories of him from school. He was one of those people who could light up any room. Always joking, always making us laugh. He never changed. Even the last time I saw him, he still had that same big, smiley face and infectious energy.'
The PSNI have said that a post-mortem examination will be carried out in due course and that the investigation is ongoing. Funeral details are to be announced in the coming days.
Three men aged 27, 34 and 42, were arrested in connection with the investigation but were all released on bail to allow for further enquiries.
Detectives have renewed their appeal to anyone who may have witnessed the incident, or anyone with CCTV or other footage that could assist with the investigation to contact the Ardmore Police Station, Newry quoting reference CW 35 31/05/25.
Alternatively, they can also make a report online at or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 (from Northern Ireland) or online at
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