Hundreds of mourners at the removal of Anthony Campbell, the apprentice plumber shot dead last week, yesterday heard a family friend and priest describe how he had been taken from them in "such a cruel and cowardly way".
Mr Campbell (20) was shot dead last Tuesday week as he worked in a house in Finglas, Dublin. The target of the attack was drug dealer Martin "Marlo" Hyland (39), who was shot dead at the same time. It is believed the young plumber was killed to ensure there would be no witnesses.
At the service at John's Lane church in Dublin, Fr Seán McArdle said Mr Campbell's death had shocked and saddened not only his family and friends, but the entire country.
"Anthony was a young person full of life, loved by you his family and friends, taken from you in such a cruel and cowardly way," he said.
"I know you, his family and friends, are devastated by his death. No words of mine can ease the awful heartbreak which is yours. And yet all of you here by your presence give support . . . Your love and sympathy have touched the family in a very special way.
"The cruel and terrible death of Anthony Campbell has shocked and saddened us all, not only in this community but throughout the city and indeed all of the country."
Earlier, parts of Dublin's city centre had been brought to a standstill as Mr Campbell's coffin was carried shoulder high along Thomas Street. Gardaí assisted in directing the procession.
Among the mourners were his father Noel, mother Christine, his siblings and other family members and members of his local football team.
Comdt Michael Murray represented Taoiseach Bertie Ahern.
Many floral tributes outlined Mr Campbell's relationship with those present: "brother," "cousin," "grandson". They also included one which said simply: "My World Ants xxxx".
Mr Campbell, from St Michan's House flats in Dublin's north inner city, has been described by gardaí as simply having been in the wrong place at the wrong time.
His funeral Mass takes place at 10am today.