Hundreds of people have turned out for a candlelit vigil to remember a father, mother, and their son who were tragically murdered in Co Louth earlier this week.
The Catholic Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland, Eamon Martin, was among those who joined prayers for Mark O’Connor, 54, his wife Louise, 56, and their son Evan, 27.
Shock and sadness were deeply felt by the local community after the bodies of the parents and their son, who had additional needs, were found at the family’s home in Drumgowna, outside Tallanstown village, on Monday morning.
Warm tributes have been paid to all three family members, highlighting the positive impact they made during their lives. Mark O’Connor was known for his dedicated work in disability advocacy, while Louise O’Connor served as a nurse. Evan was described as cherished by all who knew him.
Outside the Garda cordon, flowers and messages expressing condolences continue to be laid by mourners.
The vigil was held on Wednesday evening at Stonetown Community Walking Track, where hundreds gathered to remember the family. Prayers were led by Father Gerry Campbell, who spoke of a community “carrying a sorrow too heavy for words.” He added, “In a quiet and tranquil corner of Co Louth, the loss of Mark, Louise and Evan has sent ripples of grief across our parish and across this land and into the hearts of all who have heard their story.” Hymns were also sung by those in attendance.
On Tuesday evening, another of Mr. and Mrs. O’Connor’s sons, Robert O’Connor, 31, of Drumgowna, appeared before a special sitting of Drogheda District Court charged with three counts of murder.
https://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/hundreds-gather-to-remember-father-mother-and-son-killed-in-co-louth-1813620.html