VIDEO: Son quizzed after fatal knife attack on mum in Cork

The 25-year-old son of a woman found dead in the family home in Cork City was being questioned by gardaí last night.

Tue, 24 Nov, 2015 - 00:00

Catherine Shanahan

Paul Horgan was arrested at his home on Murmont Ave, Montenotte, after neighbours raised the alarm following a violent incident yesterday morning. He was taken to Mayfield Garda Station for questioning where he was being detained last night under section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act.

Gardaí confirmed that a murder investigation is under way. Mr Horgan’s mother, Marian Horgan, suffered multiple stab wounds in the incident. She was pronounced dead at the scene. His father Billy was seriously injured and underwent emergency surgery at the Mercy University Hospital.

Gardaí described his injuries as “non-life threatening”.

The attack took place around 7.30am. A neighbour intervened when he witnessed Mr Horgan, 68, being chased from his home by an armed attacker. Fergus O’Donoghue, formerly of Cork City FC, wrestled the assailant, Paul Horgan, to the ground.

Gardaí confirmed that neighbours came to Billy Horgan’s assistance. Others raised the alarm.

The victim was described by neighbours as “a fantastic lady” and “a great community leader”.

“I knew Marian very well, she was a great friend of mine and to be honest she is a huge loss,” said Cork City Councillor Joe Kavanagh. Mrs Horgan, 60, was a member of Murmont Residents’ Association. She was also a keen runner.

Marian and Billy Horgan: Described by neighbours as fit and healthy.

She is survived by husband Billy, two adult daughters, one of whom lives in Cork and one in Dublin, and her only son.

Detective Superintendent Seán Healy said the investigation into the attack was ongoing and that door-to-door enquiries were taking place. “We are asking for the public’s forebearance and assistance in relation to this investigation,” he said.

He said the motivation behind the attack was “completely speculative at the moment”.