A 24-YEAR-OLD man who was knifed to death in a frenzied attack at a house in Co Mayo has been named locally as Michael McDonagh.
McDonagh was a member of a family of settled travellers from Knock who were known to occasionally reside at a property on Carrabeg Estate in Swinford, Co, Mayo.
The brutal attack took place at the one-bedroom house with McDonagh reportedly stabbed multiple times during the incident.
Reports indicate McDonagh was previously the victim of another stabbing attack in a separate incident that occurred in the Ballyhaunis area last summer.
Gardaí were first called to the property at around 10:50pm on Monday night amid reports of shouting and a major disturbance at the residence.
Medical personnel were also called to the scene to treat McDonagh but, despite their best efforts, he died within minutes of the violent attack.
A Polish man said to be in his 30s was arrested at the scene.
He is currently being quizzed by detectives at Castlebar Garda Station.
The man remains in Gardai custody after his period of detention was extended.
A knife, suspected to be the weapon used in the savage murder, has also been obtained by officers for further analysis.
Please pray for the soul of this you man, Michael Mcdonagh. He was stabbed to death last night. Also pray for God, Jesus and Mother Mary to comfort his family at this heartbreaking time. Rest In Heavenly Peace, Michael. Xxx 🙏😇🙏 pic.twitter.com/nYbbhh3Ou3
— Only Jesus (@livegodjoy) November 18, 2020
Supt Joe McKenna of the Major Crime Unit in Mayo is leading the murder probe.
House to house enquiries have already been conducted while the results of a post mortem exam from Acting Deputy State Pathologist, Dr. Kathleen Han Suyin at Mayo University Hospital in Castlebar, is also due.
In the meantime, officers are appealing for anyone with information related to the crime to come forward.
A spokesperson said: “Gardai are appealing to anyone who may have information in relation to this incident to come forward.
“Gardai are also appealing to anyone who may have witnessed any unusual activity in Swinford town between the hours of 8pm and 11.15pm yesterday evening to come forward.
“Anyone with any information should contact Swinford Garda Station on 094 925 2990 or the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111.”
