A 32-year-old man has appeared in court charged with the murder of Stephen McCahill, a 66-year-old married father-of-two from Ardara, County Donegal.
Mr. McCahill was found dead outside his home in Beagh, Ardara, in the early hours of Monday morning, January 5th, following what Gardaí described as a fatal assault. Michael Maloney, of Loughros Point, Ardara, appeared before Judge Ciaran Liddy at a special sitting of Letterkenny District Court on Tuesday evening.
Maloney was charged with the murder of Stephen McCahill, an offense contrary to Common Law and Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act, 1964. He was arrested at a location separate from the scene of the assault shortly after Mr. McCahill’s body was discovered around 3:50 am.
The accused, described in court as wearing a dark-coloured hoodie and baseball cap, was handcuffed when brought before the court and flanked by detectives. He made no reply when cautioned by Gardaí.
Maloney’s solicitor, Mark Mullaney, informed the court that his client is in receipt of social welfare and has a diagnosed psychiatric illness, requesting that he receive daily medication while in prison. Garda Sergeant Jim Collins requested that Maloney be remanded in custody and appear via videolink at Letterkenny District Court next Monday, January 12th. Given the severity of the charge, no application for bail was made.
Following the court appearance, Maloney was taken to Castlerea Prison. A post mortem examination on Mr. McCahill was scheduled to take place today, January 6th. Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.
Mr. McCahill was a well-known figure in the Donegal community, co-owning the Corner House bar in Ardara and working as an auctioneer. He was also recognized as Donegal Person of the Year. Tributes have been pouring in, including one from musician Imelda May, who had visited his bar on Saturday evening, and from Donegal’s first All-Ireland GAA captain, Anthony Molloy, who described him as a true friend.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to Stephen McCahill?
Stephen McCahill was found dead outside his home in Beagh, Ardara, in the early hours of Monday, January 5th, following what Gardaí have described as a fatal assault.
Who has been charged in connection with his death?
Michael Maloney, 32, of Loughros Point, Ardara, has been charged with the murder of Stephen McCahill.
What is the next step in the legal process?
Michael Maloney has been remanded in custody and is scheduled to appear via videolink at Letterkenny District Court next Monday, January 12th.
As this case unfolds, what role will community support play in helping those affected by this tragic event?
