Community ‘truly saddened’ as man who died following assault named locally

A man who died following an assault in County Donegal has been named locally as Stephen McCahill.

Sinn Fein Councillor John Sheamais O Fearraigh offered his condolences to Mr McCahill’s family, while community group Glenties Town Team said people in the area are “deeply shocked and truly saddened” to learn of Mr McCahill’s death.

In a post on social media the group stated: “Stephen was a true friend to Glenties and always an avid supporter of our town.

“He gave generously of his time, offering great support, guidance and advice whenever it was needed.

“His encouragement and positivity made a real difference, and his commitment to community life was clear to all who knew him.

“He was a man who genuinely cared about people and places beyond his own community, and his loss will be felt far and wide.

“Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with Stephen’s family, friends and the entire Ardara community at this very difficult time.”

Mr McCahill had been named Donegal Person of the Year in 2016.

He was previously a chairman of the Ardara Heritage Centre and the Ardara Community Centre and former chairman, secretary and PRO of Ardara Parish Council.

At around 3.50am on Monday emergency services were alerted to an assault at a home in the Ardara area.

Gardai said they are “investigating all of the circumstances” after a man in his 60s was pronounced dead at the scene.

A man in his 30s was later arrested and is currently being detained.

In a post on social media the local GAA Ard na Ratha wrote: “As a Club and Parish, we are numb at the tragic death of our former Chairman, Treasurer, and Community Leader Stephen. No words can express our sympathy for Marietta, Stephen, Gemma and their families at this time.

“All planned Club activities are suspended until further notice. A full obituary and arrangements will be posted at the appropriate time.

“Rest in Peace Stephen.”