The father of a four-year-old boy killed in an arson attack in Edenderry last month has described the past month as the most painful of his life. Aaron Holt (27) appeared before Tullamore Circuit Court on Thursday in connection with separate drugs offenses, while already serving a sentence for previous convictions.
Fatal Arson and Related Drug Charges
On December 6th, a fire at Castleview Park in Edenderry resulted in the deaths of Tadgh Farrell, age four, and Mary Holt (60). Holt’s mother was also seriously injured in the attack and remains hospitalized. Holt was incarcerated at the time of the arson.
A man in his 20s, arrested on Wednesday in connection with the arson, was released without charge on Thursday. The court heard that Holt was refused bail to attend his son’s funeral due to concerns he would reoffend and for his own safety.
Drug Offenses Detailed in Court
Holt appeared before the court facing charges stemming from an incident on March 11th, 2025, related to the Misuse of Drugs Act. These charges include possession and possession for sale and supply of diamorphine, with a value of €32,910. Holt pleaded guilty on June 5th, 2025, to possessing drugs for supply.
Shane O’Neill (26), formerly of Edenderry and now residing in Tullamore, is a co-accused in the case. O’Neill pleaded guilty in October 2025 to possessing drugs for sale and supply. CCTV footage reportedly shows O’Neill depositing a package at the rear of 29 Castleview Park on May 8th, 2024, which contained drugs discovered during a subsequent search.
Further searches at O’Neill’s address revealed a “tick list” attributed to Holt, detailing names and amounts of money – including entries for €10,000 and €5,000 – potentially related to drug debts. Holt reportedly searched for the deposited drugs on May 9th, but they had already been seized by authorities. Communication between Holt and O’Neill via messaging occurred between 4:00 AM and 7:00 AM that same day, and CCTV footage shows both men searching for the drugs for several hours.
David Nugent, representing O’Neill, stated his client pleaded guilty promptly and accepts responsibility. Judge Keenan Johnson described the case as illustrative of the broader issue of illicit drugs, noting the value indicated on the recovered tick list. He adjourned the matter to January 27th to consider the evidence.
Prior to adjourning, Judge Johnson offered condolences to Mr. Holt for his loss, which Mr. Holt acknowledged.
Frequently Asked Questions
What charges is Aaron Holt facing?
Aaron Holt is facing three offenses under the Misuse of Drugs Act, including possession and possession for sale and supply of diamorphine, valued at €32,910.
What role did Shane O’Neill play in the case?
Shane O’Neill pleaded guilty to possessing drugs for sale and supply. CCTV footage shows him depositing a package containing drugs at a property linked to Holt.
What was the judge’s response to the case?
Judge Keenan Johnson described the case as an illustration of the “scourge of illicit drugs” and adjourned the matter to January 27th to consider the evidence.
As the legal proceedings continue, what impact will this case have on the community of Edenderry and its efforts to address drug-related crime?
