Community Mourns Louth Family: Candlelit Vigil Held for O'Connors
Hundreds of people gathered at the Stonetown Community Walking Track in County Louth on Wednesday evening to remember Mark O’Connor, 54, his wife Louise, 56, and their son Evan, 27, who were tragically murdered at their family home near Tallanstown earlier this week. The vigil served as a poignant tribute to the family, who were well-known and respected within their local community.
Outpouring of Grief and Tributes
The discovery of the O'Connor family's bodies on Monday morning sent shockwaves through the local community, leading to an outpouring of grief. Flowers and messages of condolences have been laid outside the family home in Drumgowna. Mark O’Connor was known for his disability advocacy, Louise for her work as a nurse, and Evan, who had additional needs, was cherished by all who knew him.
Tributes highlighted the significant impact the family had on the lives of others. Mark actively campaigned for better services for autistic people, and was a board member of Autism Support Louth and Meath. He also recently ran the Boston Marathon. Louise taught English to Ukrainian people and volunteered in pet rescue centres.
“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’.” - Father Gerry Campbell
Vigil and Community Support
Father Gerry Campbell led prayers at the vigil, describing the community as carrying a sorrow too heavy for words. Eamon Martin, the Catholic Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland, was also among those who joined in prayer. Hymns were sung as the community united in grief and remembrance.
Legal Proceedings and Investigation
On Tuesday evening, Robert O’Connor, 31, another son of Mark and Louise, was charged with the murder of his parents and brother. He appeared before a special sitting of Drogheda District Court. The court heard that O’Connor made no reply when the charges were presented to him and that he has been with mental health services since the age of 22. He was remanded in custody and is scheduled to appear again via videolink on October 6. The Gardaí are continuing their investigation into the circumstances of the tragedy.
