Today marks the 6th anniversary of the death of Detective Garda Colm Horkan, who was fatally shot while on duty in Castlerea, County Roscommon, on June 17th, 2020.
On the night of the incident, Detective Garda Horkan responded to reports of two men driving a motorcycle erratically in the Knockroe area of Castlerea. After the individuals had left the area, he continued patrols and later encountered two men matching the description on Main Street in the town.
The detective stopped to speak with the men, one of whom he knew. During the interaction, the second man became aggressive and a struggle followed when Detective Garda Horkan attempted to arrest him.
During the altercation, the man gained possession of the detective’s service firearm and discharged a number of shots, fatally injuring Detective Garda Horkan.
The killing shocked communities across Charlestown, Roscommon and Ireland and prompted widespread tributes to the dedicated Garda officer, who had served with An Garda SÃochána for many years.
Detective Garda Horkan is remembered by colleagues, family, friends and the wider community for his commitment to public service and his dedication to protecting others.
