Investigation into fatal hit-and-run of GAA coach still 'open' nine months later
Niall MacEneaney, 42, was struck by a vehicle – a private car that is registered to a serving garda who was off-duty at the time – on the Rathmullan Road in Drogheda, Co Louth. He was left for dead in the early hours of St Patrick’s Day morning on Su
The investigation into a hit-and-run which claimed the life of a popular GAA coach remains “open” nine months later, the Garda Ombudsman Commission has said.
Niall MacEneaney, 42, was struck by a vehicle – a private car that is registered to a serving garda who was off-duty at the time – on the Rathmullan Road in Drogheda, Co Louth. He was left for dead in the early hours of St Patrick’s Day morning on Sunday, March 17.
In April a member of An Garda Siochana was arrested in connection with the investigation. He has been interviewed by the GSOC, who are leading the investigation into the incident. The vehicle failed to remain at the scene and the off-duty garda under investigation has been suspended.
In a statement, GSOC said: “This investigation remains open. GSOC is not in a position to comment further at this time.”
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We previously exclusively revealed a vital piece of evidence – a registration plate from the suspected vehicle was discovered at the scene – which enabled investigators to trace the owner. We also revealed that CCTV footage tracing the movements of the suspect and vehicle will prove vital in the investigation.
Niall, who managed Termonfeckin club St Fechin’s to the last two Louth senior hurling championship titles, was found unresponsive shortly after 2.40am on the Rathmullen Road. He was pronounced dead following the arrival of emergency services.
Affectionately known as “Trigger” he and his wife Grace had got married just a few years ago.
Mourners at his funeral Mass at Our Lady of Lourdes Church in Drogheda were told he was “everybody’s favourite” who had “friends in every county in Ireland” and he was “a dedicated hurling man who loved dogs and making connections and was a devoted partner to his wife, Grace”.
Shortly after the fatal incident, GSOC opened up an investigation due to the suspected involvement of a garda and it continues to appeal for witnesses.
A statement said: “GSOC would like to speak to any witnesses who observed any incident, activity or interactions at this time and location. GSOC would also welcome the provision of any CCTV, dashcam or mobile footage witnesses may have captured.”
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