300 statements taken in relation to murder of suspected gang member, inquest hears

Gardai have taken more than 300 statements in relation to the death of gangland murder victim Paul Kavanagh. 

The 27-year-old was shot dead while sitting in his car, a VW Passat at Church Avenue, Drumcondra on Dublin’s northside around 11.30am on March 26 2015.

The inquest into Mr Kavanagh’s death, which first opened in June 2015 at Dublin Coroner's Court, heard that Gardai are still collecting evidence for a file to be submitted to the Director of Public Prosecutions.

Numerous lines of inquiry have been established, Dublin Coroner’s Court heard, with some 300 statements taken by Gardai as part of the ongoing investigation.

A stolen white Audi A1 was found burnt out on Church Avenue, Drumcondra shortly after the incident and is thought to have been used in the murder.

Gardaí believe Mr Kavanagh was ambushed in a well-planned attack by killers who had him under surveillance at the rented house he shared with his partner and two young children.

The victim had minor convictions for road traffic and public order offences, but was suspected of involvement in drug-related organised crime.

Coroner Dr Myra Cullinane adjourned the inquest for further mention until Dec 6 2016.