Farmer killed and brother seriously injured by bull

A farmer has been killed and his twin brother mauled in a bull attack in Co Donegal.

The initial attack is understood to have happened around 2pm at Burt on the Inishowen Peninsula.

The dead man was named locally as Patrick Dowds, 65. He left his home yesterday morning. However, when he did not return, his twin brother George went looking for him.

It is understood that George was then also attacked by the same bull when he went to go to his brother’s aid in the townland of Toulette.

He was rushed to Letterkenny General Hospital where his injuries are understood to be serious.

Local priest Fr Brendan Crowley said: “It is a very, very sad situation. One brother is dead and the other is in a serious condition in hospital.

“The brothers would be very well-known in the area. They are from a very large, extended family in Burt who are very well-known and highly-respected members of the community.”

Gardaí have sealed off the area which is close to the Grianan of Aileach historical site.

Gardaí and the Health and Safety Authority are investigating.

The victim’s body was not removed from the scene until just before 6pm yesterday.

County councillor Paul Canning said the thoughts and payers of the entire community are with the men’s family.

“This is such a difficult time for the family and for the entire community. The men were hard-working farmers who were very well-respected in the community.

“They were simply going about their daily work when this awful tragedy visited them.

“It highlights the dangers that farmers face on a daily basis when they go about their work,” he said.