A small Co Louth community has been left reeling after the deaths of Mark O'Connor (54), Louise Doherty O'Connor (56), and their son Evan (27) whose funeral was held this week. The accused has been remanded while an independent psychiatric assessment is carried out.
Local funeral arrangements published online stated that the funeral mass would be held at St Patrick's Cathedral in Dundalk on October 7 at 11am with private cremations to follow and that the family requested privacy at this time.
The criminal case has moved forward in Drogheda District Court where Robert O'Connor (31) was remanded in custody after being charged with the murders of his parents and brother. Reporting from the hearing said he "made no reply when arrested and charged" and that his defence solicitor applied for a psychiatric assessment, the Irish Times reports.
Community members have rallied to remember the couple and their son and to support charities the family cared about. A GoFundMe set up by a relative says "Any monies collected will be shared between The Hub Praxis Care Drogheda and Drogheda ABACAS School" and has drawn hundreds of donations in the days since the tragedy.
Media coverage and local tributes described Mark as a dedicated runner and disability advocate Louise as a former nurse who volunteered locally and Evan as a beloved young man with additional needs. Hundreds turned out for candlelit vigils and floral tributes were left at community locations as neighbors sought ways to show solidarity.
Officials handling the investigation have asked for privacy for the surviving family and neighbors. The Director of Public Prosecutions directed that three counts of murder be brought and the court adjourned the case to allow preparation of a book of evidence while the psychiatric assessment is arranged.
As the family graveside services conclude the community in Dundalk and surrounding areas moves into the longer work of grieving and supporting the relatives left behind.
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