IAN RUSH has paid tribute to fallen Garda Colm Horkan, who was an avid Liverpool supporter, in a heartfelt message issued on behalf of the club.
A lifelong Reds supporter, Detective Garda Horkan was shot and killed in the line of duty this week.
In the heartfelt message shared by the Irish Daily Mirror, Rush told the much-loved officer’s family "they will never walk alone”.
Liverpool fans across Ireland are set to hold and minute’s silence at midday, along with Gardai across the country, to remember Garda Horkan.
Rush said each and every Liverpool player would also be “keeping Colm in their prayers” during the Merseyside Derby against Everton.
An avid fan of the European Cup holders, Garda Horkan had been looking forward to seeing his beloved Liverpool win another league title after a 30-year wait.
But while he tragically won’t get to see his beloved Reds lift the trophy, Rush was keen to pay his respects and assure Colm’s family that everyone at the club would be thinking of him over the next few weeks.
Rush said he was “deeply saddened by this awful tragedy” especially after it emerged he had been photographed alongside Colm at a match several years ago.
Deepest condolences to The family, friends and colleagues of Garda Colm Horkan, who was killed in the line of duty last night in Castlerea. To my good friend and ex colleague Deirdre,a sister of Colms,i extend my deepest sympathy at this terrible time. Pictured with @Ian_Rush9 pic.twitter.com/AZINdnLFHv
— tomdonovan (@tomdonovan15) June 18, 2020
The Liverpool legend said: “When I saw the picture of us together it really was upsetting to say the least.”
“This was a brutal crime and Colm should be remembered for the gentleman he was and how much he devoted his life to protecting and serving the public.”
Rush went on pay tribute to the incredible work of the Irish police force while also sending a message to the Horkan family.
“I really feel An Gardai Siochana do not get enough credit for what they do.
“I would like to send a message to the Horkan family at this difficult time.
“I would like them to know that I have shared Colm’s story with my colleagues at Liverpool and first and foremost from myself and everyone at Liverpool Football club we want to express our deepest sympathy with the Horkan family.
“I have reached out to our team players and they will be keeping Colm in their prayers before today’s game.
“May he rest in peace. I want to let his family know that they will never walk alone.”
Watch the touching video tribute here.
