Gardaí pay tribute to colleague Colm

THE Garda Representative Authority (GRA) has paid warm tribute to colleague Detective Garda Colm Horkan - 'a gentleman known for his kindness' - who died in a shooting incident in Castlerea last night.

“On behalf of the GRA, I extend our deepest sympathy to the family of our colleague Detective Garda Colm Horkan, fatally shot in the line of duty in Castlerea, Co Roscommon overnight.

“Our brave colleague died as result of injuries sustained when he was responding to an incident,” GRA president Jim Mulligan said.

Detective Garda Horkan was based in Ballaghaderreen, Castlerea District in the Longford/Roscommon Division.

A native of Charlestown, he joined An Garda Síochána in 1995, and was an experienced detective, greatly respected by colleagues.

He came from a well-known and respected family in Charlestown and is survived by his father, sister and four brothers.

Mr. Mulligan said: “Colm was a hugely popular figure among colleagues and in GAA circles. He was a member of Charlestown GAA and played underage football for his native county.

“He was always regarded as a go-to man in Charlestown GAA. Nothing was too big or too small a request for him.

“Colm was a gentleman known for his kindness and commitment to helping other people. He died protecting his community and serving his country.

“Our thoughts are with Colm's family, colleagues and the communities he served at this very distressing and traumatic time.

“Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.”

Garda Commissioner Drew Harris has described the fatal shooting of Detective Garda Colm Horkan in Roscommon last night as "a random act".

Commissioner Harris has said he was "deeply saddened" by the death of the Det. Garda Horkan.