Commissioner marks fourth anniversary of garda murder

Garda Commissioner Nóirín O’Sullivan has described as “brutal and senseless” the murder of Cavan-native, Detective Garda Adrian Donohoe, and in marking the fourth anniversary of his death said the force is more determined than ever to bring his killers to justice.

“As we mark the fourth anniversary of the brutal and senseless murder of our colleague Detective Garda Adrian Donohoe in the line of duty, An Garda Síochána is as determined as ever to bring those behind this horrific crime to justice,” Commissioner O'Sullivan said in a statement this morning (January 25, 2017).

Det Gda Donohoe (41), originally from Kilnaleck, was fatally shot in Bellurgan, Co Louth in January 2013 by an armed gang of five people who were involved in a robbery at Lordship Credit Union. The married father-of-two, who had served 19-years in the force, was the first garda officer to be shot dead in the line of duty since 1996, and was afforded a full state funeral.

Extensive inquiries continue to be carried out in this country and with our international partners including the PSNI.

“This is a highly complex investigation and it is important that as with all such investigations that we make sure we have every single detail right,” Commissioner O'Sullivan assured. The investigation team in Dundalk has done incredible work and An Garda Síochána will continue its efforts in this vain until justice is done.”

However, the Commissioner stated that gardai “cannot do this alone”.

Seeking the public's assistance, she said: “Even the smallest piece of information could be vital. At this time, I would appeal to anyone with information on Adrian’s murder to come forward and help us with our enquiries. There are still people out there who know who the killers are. It is never too late to do the right thing. Any information provided will be treated sensitively.”

Noting that Det Gda Donohoe was the “epitome of all that is good about An Garda Síochána”, she paid tribute to his dedication to many community aspects beyond his work, which included involvement in coaching underage teams at St Patrick’s GAA in the Lordship area.

“Adrian was always focused on helping and supporting others. Today, our thoughts are with Caroline, the children, and all of Adrian’s extended family and friends.”

Anyone with information in relation to the murder of Detective Garda Adrian Donohoe should call the incident room in Dundalk Garda Station on 042 9388470 or the Garda Confidential Number on 1800 666 111.

Meanwhile, the Irish League of Credit Unions, which represents credit unions in the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, have offered a reward of €50,000 for information that leads to any arrest and prosecution in respect of the murder of Detective Garda Adrian Donohoe.