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Sunday World
12-07-2025
- Sunday World
First photo of tragic pensioner beaten to death with vodka bottle in a bag
A man in his 40s who was known to Mr Hayes, but who is not related to him, was arrested by gardaí on Friday morning. THIS is the pensioner killed after its suspected he was punched and beaten over the head with a bag containing a vodka bottle when he went to investigate noises outside his home. Michael Hayes, aged in his 70s, was found critically injured outside his home at St Michael's Court apartments, in Watergate, Limerick City, at around 11.30pm on Thursday. Mr Hayes was resuscitated by paramedics and taken by ambulance to University Hospital Limerick where he was pronounced dead in the early hours of Friday morning. Paying tribute to Michael on Friday evening, the Garryowen Residents Association posted:' Heartfelt condolences to Garryowen native Michael ( Mikey) Hayes , formerly of Kilmurry court Garryowen , an extremely pleasant, gentle person , sincere condolences to all your family from all your old neighbours and friends.' Michael Hayes News in 90 Seconds - Saturday July 12 Dozens of neighbours also paid tribute to the pensioner describing him a 'gentle soul.' A man in his 40s who was known to Mr Hayes, but who is not related to him, was arrested by gardaí on Friday morning. The man was being questioned by gardaí under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act 1984. Gardaí believe Mr Hayes was assaulted and beaten with a vodka bottle that was wrapped in a bag. Gardaí were following a number of lines of enquiry, including that Mr Hayes may have gone to investigate loud noises outside his home when he was attacked. The results of a post mortem, that was to be conducted by the office of the State Pathologist, will determine the next course of the Garda investigation, sources said. The assault took place in Watergate, Limerick city One of Mr Hayes's neighbours, Geraldine Costello, paid tribute to him. 'Michael was a lovely boy, he'd always go out of his way to do a good turn for you,' she said. 'His dog, Daisy, is crying all the time because Michael is not there. 'I was only talking to him yesterday, I'm after getting an awful shock. 'I was very fond of him, I'm a good friend of his, I've known him since I was young and I'm very sorry that he is gone.' Ms Costello's niece, Tracy Coleman, said: 'It is shocking, because he was a really lovely man, and he would always go out of his way and do whatever do you.' 'He was a young man for his age, everyday he was always going for walks.' It's understood Mr Hayes lived alone and has a number of grown-up children. Mr Hayes, who lived near the Milk Market, was known as a gentle and respectful man who kept to himself but was always willing to lend a hand. 'He was a quiet man,' one friend said of the elderly man. 'He minded my dog when I had to be away, took very good care of her.' A close neighbour stated: 'People here are devastated. My family are shocked. He was good to everyone around here.' Gardaí have launched a full-scale investigation led by a senior investigating officer. A Garda tape cordon was placed around a large section around apartments at the scene, which is located between St Michael's Street, Ellen Street and Mungret Street in the city. Detectives were harvesting any CCTV footage in the area and carrying out house-to-house enquiries. Gardaí appealed for anyone who was in the area on Thursday evening who may have information or who may have footage to come forward. Anyone with information was asked to contact Gardaí at Henry Street Garda Station (061) 212400, or the Garda Confidential Line 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station. ENDS
Sunday World
10-07-2025
- Sunday World
Fundraiser in honour of tragic dad Joey McEvoy raises thousands in hours
'Our community is left devastated by the news of Joe's passing as he leaves behind his life partner Emma and three kids Tori, Parker and Alfie' A fundraiser for tragic dad-of-two Joey McEvoy has raised thousands of euro in a matter of hours. The GoFundMe page set up for the family of Mr McEvoy who was fatally stabbed in an alleged attack at a house in Dublin 'smashed' the initial goal of €5,000, according to organisers. A total of €7,250 has now been raised towards a new €8,000 target through 136 donations. In an update to the page, simply entitled 'Joey McEvoy' a message states: '5000 goal smashed, thank you all, let's keep going for Joe's family'. 'Joey was a hardworking family man and the life of every party/event,' the page reads. 'He was the captain of Old Tower/Quarryvale for the last eight plus years and a real leader who everybody would want on their team. 'Our community is left devastated by the news of Joe's passing as he leaves behind his life partner Emma and three kids Tori, Parker and Alfie. RIP Joe Mc.' Joey McEvoy News in 90 Seconds - July 10th Mr McEvoy, a father of two young boys and step-father to a girl, died following an incident at around 5.50am on Monday morning. Gardai said they were alerted to an alleged assault at a residence in Clondalkin. Mr McEvoy was found unresponsive and was conveyed to John Connolly Hospital, Blanchardstown, where he was later pronounced deceased. Details of Mr McEvoy's funeral are to be released later, according to his death notice on It states that the death has occurred of Joey McEvoy of Greenfort Clondalkin, Dublin 'very suddenly'. 'Surrounded by his loving family (and) sadly missed by his heartbroken parents Yvonne and Joseph, loving partner Emma, adored children Parker, Alfie and Tori'. It also refers to his sisters Leanne and Lacey, brothers Robert and Tyler, nanny Lizzy, as well as nephews and nieces, his family-in-law and 'very wide large circle of friends' and 'all his pals from his football team at Quarryvale football club and work pals from Ted's scaffolding business.' In the condolences section people have left messages including one that reads: 'Such a lovely, genuine and gent of a man, I couldn't say enough nice things about Joey. 'God takes the best to join him, he took the best with Joey, thoughts and prayers are with his family, may you find strength during such a difficult time.' 'Sorry for your loss thinking of all of use at this sad time,' another adds. 'Absolutely heartbreaking news,' one mourner has written. 'My condolences, thoughts and prayers are with Joey's family, Emma and the kids. Such shocking and sad news.' Another offers: 'Deepest sympathy to all the family on the tragic loss of Joey. Our thoughts are with you all at this sad and difficult time.' On Tuesday, Christopher Kelly (41) appeared in Dublin District Court accused of killing Mr McEvoy (34) in the west of the city. He was remanded in custody for the directions of the DPP. Mr Kelly, with an address at Shancastle Park, Clondalkin is charged with murdering Mr McEvoy at nearby Shancastle Close in the early hours of July 7. Detective Sergeant Sean Cosgrove told Judge David McHugh he arrested the accused for the purpose of charging him at Ronanstown station at 3.07pm. At 3.58pm, Mr Kelly was 'charged with the murder of Joseph McEvoy' and made no reply after caution, Det Sgt Cosgrove said. The accused's barrister Sam Friel BL made no bail application on his behalf as this can only be granted at High Court level on a murder charge. He applied for free legal aid, "given the seriousness of the charge", and said the accused was 'not receiving any social welfare at the moment.' Judge McHugh asked Det Sgt Cosgrove what his view of this was and he replied that he had no objection. The judge granted legal aid and, after hearing there were no further applications, remanded the accused in custody, to appear in Cloverhill District Court on Friday. Mr Kelly was not required to address the court during the brief hearing and has not yet entered a plea to the charge. Investigating gardaí are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed the incident to come forward. They are also appealing to anyone with camera footage, including motorists with dashcam footage from the area between 5am and 6am on Monday, July 7, to contact them.
Sunday World
28-06-2025
- Sunday World
Family of stab victim James Berney say he was ‘taken too soon' ahead of private funeral
People have left numerous messages of sympathy including one that reads: 'May your kind, beautiful soul rest in peace Jake' A private funeral will be held for stabbing victim James 'Jake' Berney, it has been announced. According to his notice on the 53-year-old who died in Tallaght Hospital last week after being attacked in his home over a personal dispute, was 'taken too soon'. It states that Jake will be forever 'sadly missed' by his loving father Andrew, his daughter Lorita, his son Aaron 'and all of his immediate family'. 'Taken too soon but forever loved by all of his brothers and their wives, aunts and nieces, extended family and friends,' the notice reads. In the condolences section, people have left numerous messages of sympathy including one that reads: 'May your kind, beautiful soul rest in peace Jake.' Stab victim James 'Jake' Berney News in 90 Seconds - June 28th Another adds that 'it was with deep shock and profound sorrow that I heard the terrible news of Jamesy's passing'. 'Fifty-three is far too young, and to be taken in such a cruel manner is truly difficult to comprehend. Love and sympathies to Andy, Willie and all of his family and friends,' Another writes that 'Jamesy' was more than an acquaintance, 'he was a fixture of our childhood on Foxdene Drive'. 'I'll never forget him babysitting, letting us stay up late for MacGyver, then attempting to lull us asleep before the folks got back with his dramatic rendition of 'Lady in Red'. 'It's a very sad day for Clondalkin,' another adds, 'he was a gentleman. I will always remember your kindness, smile, laugh and chats. May you RIP. Thinking of all your family, gone too soon.' Another mourner said: 'I only knew you from passing by, you were such a friendly person and never bothered anyone.' Another added: 'Couldn't believe what I was hearing, you didn't deserve that Jake. (I) knew you 20 years and not a bad bone in your body.' Berney, who lived at the home on Foxdene Drive in Balgaddy with his elderly father, was stabbed multiple times during a fatal attack following a personal dispute on Wednesday night. A male teen has emerged as the chief suspect in the attack and while he has not yet been arrested by gardai, it's understood that he was known to Mr Berney, although they were not related. One source told the Irish Independent: "He is well known around the area and his name spread around in the hours after this happened. He hasn't been seen since the stabbing on Wednesday night but he is the chief suspect." Meanwhile, Jake's daughter, Lorita, and pal Rebecca, have set up a GoFundMe page on behalf of the victim and his family 'The financial burden of Jake's funeral now rests on his elderly father, who is in his late 80s,' the page reads. 'At a time when he should be surrounded by peace and support, he is instead facing the unimaginable pain and cost of laying his son to rest. 'Jake was known for his kind heart and willingness to help others, even during his own struggles. He left a mark on many lives, and now his family needs support,' the page continues. 'If you're able to contribute, any amount would be deeply appreciated and would ease the weight on his father's shoulders during this devastating time. Thank you for your kindness.' James, who is known as Jake, was killed after the suspect forced his way into his home on Wednesday night. He was stabbed several times in the back and chest. The Sunday World understands that a number of other people were in the property at the time and witnessed the attack. The suspect fled and emergency services were alerted. Gardaí and paramedics rushed to the scene and the victim was transferred to Tallaght University Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. Sources described Mr Berney as a 'harmless man' who was well known in the area. 'He was a decent, harmless man who helped out around the area,' a source said. Gardaí were awaiting the results of a post-mortem examination yesterday, but they are expected to upgrade the inquiry to a murder investigation. No arrests have been made, but investigators are following a definite line of inquiry. Gardaí sealed off the house and a forensic examination by members of the Garda Technical Bureau began early yesterday morning. Neighbours said Mr Berney worked as a painter and decorator, and would often carry out decorating jobs for people in the area, some of whom described him as a 'perfectionist' when it came to his work. 'It's very sad. He was a local handyman, really. Everyone knew him, young and old,' one neighbour said. Another said: 'He was a loveable rogue, I'm going to miss him.' Neighbours said the front door of Mr Berney's house could be opened from the outside unless it was locked with a key, and there were frequent visitors to the property. There was no sign of forced entry at the house, and gardaí dusted the front door for fingerprints as part of their investigation. One neighbour reported hearing a disturbance at the house late on Wednesday night. 'There was banging and shouting and then the ambulance and gardaí started to arrive very quickly,' the man said. 'I've never seen so many squad cars. I knew there was something up when the gardaí put the tape up around the house. It's terribly sad,' another neighbour added. The investigation is being led by a senior investigating officer at Lucan garda station. Gardaí are appealing to anyone who was in the vicinity of Foxdene Drive between 11pm and 12am and observed any activity that drew their attention to come forward. Anyone with any information is asked to contact Lucan garda station on 01 666 7300, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any garda station.
Sunday World
28-06-2025
- Sunday World
Teen arrested after slurry spread in Ballymena hours before town's first Pride parade
Police are treating the incident, which happened overnight, as a hate crime. A teenager has been arrested after slurry was spread on the streets of Ballymena - hours before the town's first Pride parade. Police are treating the incident, which happened overnight, as a hate crime. The 19-year-old male was arrested on suspicion of criminal damage and possession of a bladed or pointed item. He remains in custody. Local people and businesses took part in a clean-up operation this morning. The Pride parade is scheduled to take place this afternoon. The clean-up operation in Ballymena today. Photo: Scott Cuthbertson/Facebook News in 90 Seconds - June 28th It is to start at 2pm and finish up at Greenvale Street, which is among the areas affected, an hour later. The route takes in Waveney Road, Galgorm Road, Lower Mill Street, Wellington Street, Broughshane Street, William Street and Ballymoney Street. An application lodged with the Parades Commission said 1,500 participants and 2,000 spectators are expected. Organisers have said the event is an effort to celebrate "diversity, inclusion and cross-community unity.' The slurry incident has been widely condemned today. Scott Cuthbertson from The Rainbow Project said those responsible were 'disgusting bigots'. 'A huge thank you to the local businesses who have rallied round to clean up the mess. The lesson for these bigots – Pride goes on,' he said. Alliance MLA Sian Mulholland said 'There is no place for this kind of disgusting and deliberate attempt to intimidate, disrupt or shame those taking part in a peaceful and joyful celebration of love, identity and community. 'I have spoken directly with the parade organisers and the PSNI, and our team has engaged with Mid and East Antrim Borough Council to ensure cleansing takes place urgently and the route is made safe and welcoming for all. 'Ballymena Pride is a historic and hopeful moment for our town. No amount of hate will drown out the message of inclusion, solidarity, and pride that today represents.' Justice Minister Naomi Long said on X: 'I despair the mentality of those who spread slurry on the streets of their town motivated by hate and bigotry. Disgusting in every sense of the word. 'Solidarity to all at Ballymena Pride. It's a frightening time but love will always triumph over hate.' The PSNI said: 'Police in Ballymena have arrested a man after officers on patrol in the Granville Drive area observed slurry on the road at around 2.55am this morning. 'A 19-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of criminal damage and possession of a blade/point. He remains in police custody at this time. 'The matter is being treated as a hate crime and enquiries are ongoing.'
Sunday World
28-06-2025
- Sunday World
Gardaí receive ‘key information' about disappearance of Icelandic man Jon Jonsson six years ago
A team of five detectives travelled to Iceland on Monday and are due to come back to Ireland today. Garda detectives have interviewed 45 people this week in Iceland in relation to the disappearance of Jon Jonsson. The case has not yet been upgraded to homicide and suicide has not yet been ruled out. A team of five detectives travelled to Iceland on Monday and are due to come back to Ireland today. Sources said the gardaí received 'key information' and are keeping a 'very open mind' about the disappearance of the 41-year-old, who was in Ireland to attend the Dublin Poker Festival when he went missing six years ago. We need to analyse every single detail – the clue to this is in Iceland A large number of females were interviewed as part of the process along with some suspected criminals. 'We need to analyse every single detail in the 45 statements that have been obtained – the clue to this is in Iceland,' a source told the Sunday World. The father of four disappeared after leaving the Bonnington Hotel on the Swords Road in north Dublin on February 9, 2019. Jon Jonsson seen leaving the Bonnington Hotel. Photo: Paul Sheridan News in 90 Seconds - June 28th The investigation is being led by Detective Superintendent Alan Brady of Ballymun garda station who made a public appeal earlier this week for information in the case. 'We came here to interview a large number of people who we think may have some information in relation to where Jon is,' Det Supt Brady said. 'We've also come here to appeal to the Icelandic public for help in finding Jon. 'We believe that whatever happened to Jon did happen to him in Dublin, but the answers to what happened to Jon may lie here amongst the Icelandic community.' Speaking to Icelandic media, Det Supt Brady said gardaí were trying to do everything they can to progress the investigation. No family should have to endure what they've gone through 'Jon's family have been going through heartbreak for the last six-and-a-half years,' he said. 'We're here to try and find answers for them. No family should have to endure what they've gone through.' The investigation into Mr Jonsson's disappearance has been stepped up in recent months. His family believe he may have been murdered by a paid hitman in a case of mistaken identity. One line of investigation is if the hitman intended to target a different Icelandic man visiting Ireland at the time. Gardaí believe there are people who may have knowledge of Mr Jonsson's disappearance who are not comfortable speaking to Icelandic police. They hope they will be more willing to speak to Irish officers. The Irish Independent understands that all 45 interviews conducted by gardaí this week were facilitated by Icelandic police. In April, gardaí in Dublin carried out four new searches with cadaver dogs after people provided information after RTÉ aired a documentary podcast series on Mr Jonsson's disappearance. Mr Jonsson left the hotel on foot at about 11am and was recorded by a security camera 200m away. Beyond those images, no trace of him has ever been uncovered. Since Mr Jonsson disappeared, gardaí have followed more than 350 lines of enquiry.
