Gunfight suspected in tragic land dispute

A dispute over a plot of land appears to have resulted in a suspected murder-suicide among neighbouring in-laws in Co Carlow — and there may have been an exchange of fire.

Gardaí suspect that Michael Jordan, 51, went to the home of his brother-in-law George Rothwell, 71, in the early hours of yesterday armed with a shotgun.

Gardaí believe Mr Jordan shot Mr Rothwell dead, and are investigating the possibility both of them may have been armed. A shotgun was found underneath Mr Rothwell’s body. He lived on his own and was due to turn 72 next week.