TRIBUTES have been paid in Donegal to a Garda detective, who has died following a shooting incident in County Roscommon.
The shooting happened in Castlerea late last night.
Detective Garda Colm Horkan, who was from Mayo, was on duty on his own in Castlerea when he was shot just before midnight.
Before the start of this morning’s sitting of Leterkenny District Court, Judge Paul Kelly led the tributes to the late Detective Garda Horkan.
“This illustrates the risk that members of An Garda Síochána are exposed to every time they report for duty,” Judge Kelly said.
“This was a very tragic incident. He is the 89th member of the force to lose his life in the line of duty and that is a very unwelcome statistic.”
Judge Kelly conveyed sympathy to the family, friends and colleagues of Detective Garda Horkan.
He said: “No doubt this has been a very tragic moment for all concerned and for the Gardaí at large.”
Judge Kelly’s sentiments were echoed on behalf of the legal profession by solicitor Mr Frank Dorrian.
Responding, Garda Inspector Michael Harrison said: “Members started their shift as normal last night and this is the last thing that you expect, that a member working will not come home.
“We in this Division are well ware of the misery this brings. It is a very, very sad day for An Garda Síochána.”
A man in his 40s has been arrested and is being held at Castlerea Garda Station.
A murder investigation is under way.
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