A murder investigation is underway after a Garda was shot dead with his own gun.
Detective Garda Colm Horkan was on patrol in Castlerea, Co. Roscommon last night when the shooting occurred.
He was responding to a disturbance on Castlerea main street which involved a man who had been in contact with Gardai earlier in the week.
The situation evolved into a physical altercation during which his gun was taken from him.
The entire round of bullets was discharged from the weapon and Detective Horkan was shot multiple times.
The 49 year old was pronounced dead at the scene.
His colleagues joined in prayer as Fr. John McManus gave Detective Horkan his last rites.
A man in his 40s was arrested at the scene and is being held at Castlerea Garda station.
Garda Commissioner Drew Harris will visit Detective Horkan’s family and colleagues this afternoon to express his condolences.
The Taoiseach and President are leading the tributes to the family of Detective Garda Colm Horkan – with Michael D Higgins saying his loss of life is traumatic for our society as a whole.
Garda Commissioner Drew Harris said Colm Horkan served the communities he worked in with distinction and pride, while the Association of Garda Sergeants and Inspectors said Gardai are feeling a deep sense of grief and loss.
Fine Gael’s Seanad spokesperson on Justice and Equality, Clare Senator Martin Conway, has also expressed his condolences to the family and colleagues of Garda Horkan.
