A MAN arrested for questioning yesterday in connection with the fatal shooting earlier of a 71-year old farmer in south Mayo was still in custody last night at Claremorris Garda station.
The suspect was 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.