Mum, dad & son killed at their home

Suspect known to them is arrested, Area 'devastated' by tragedy, Cllr says

- NICOLA DONNELLY in Co Louth

A COMMUNITY has been left reeling following the deaths of three family members in what authorities have described as a "violent incident" at their home.

Named locally as Mark and Louise O'Connor, in their 50s, and their son Evan, in his 20s and with additional needs, all three sustained fatal injuries during the shocking stabbing.

The incident took place in their country stone cottage in a rural area between three small Co Louth villages of Stonestown, Louth Village and Tallanstown.

A male known to them is suspected of killing them.

Emergency services responded to the scene yesterday morning but all three were pronounced dead. It's understood two bodies were discovered inside the property while a third was found on the driveway.

Just before 6pm yesterday, a private ambulance arrived at the scene and the remains were removed.

Evan attended Praxis day service, which supports individuals with mental ill health, learning disabilities, autism and dementia. Staff coming to collect him yesterday morning reportedly found the bodies of the three family members.

The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the north east of Leinster, with neighbours and local representatives expressing devastation at the loss of the well-known family, who are understood to have lived in the cottage for the past 20 years.

Gardai have launched a full investigation, though details surrounding the circumstances remain limited.

A man in his 30s, who is known to the family, was arrested around 6km from the home of the deceased couple and their son.