Man still held over Mayo murder

A man arrested for questioning yesterday in connection with the fatal shooting earlier of a 71-year old farmer in south Mayo …

A man arrested for questioning yesterday in connection with the fatal shooting earlier of a 71-year old farmer in south Mayo remains in custody at Claremorris Garda station today.

The suspect is being held under section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act following a shooting incident at a farmhouse in the townland of Wallpark, Glencorrib, on the shores of Lough Corrib.

The victim was a well-respected farmer whose violent death has shocked the local community.

Cllr Damian Ryan, a member of Mayo County Council, said last night he knew the man who had been killed. The councillor said that his tragic passing would leave a huge void.

"It's an enormous tragedy for all concerned. My deepest sympathy is extended to the family and the entire community."

Gardaí were called to the two-storey farmhouse, at the end of a lengthy lane, at around 2.15pm yesterday, where they found the victim in a critical condition with what they described as "serious injuries".

The man was taken by ambulance to University College Hospital in Galway city where he died a short time later.

A pathologist is expected to carry out a postmortem later today.

It is understood the man arrested is a relation of the victim.

Gardaí are asking for anybody who might be able to provide information about the incident to contact them at 094-9371222.