Gardaí release man in publican death probe

One of the men arrested over the killing of a publican during a robbery at his rural bar was released today without charge, detectives said.

The man, in his 20s, was being questioned about the death of Matt Farrell, who owned The Gaelic Bar in the village of Daingean, Co Offaly.

Gardaí said they were preparing a file for the Director of Public Prosecutions on his detention.

He was the first of two men arrested separately yesterday over the killing.

The second, also in his 20s, remains in custody at Tullamore garda station.

Mr Farrell was found by his son tied up in the family home attached to the pub earlier this month after what was believed to have been a botched hold-up.

A post mortem examination revealed the 64-year-old suffered head injuries during an attack and died as a result.

Some 100 officers have been drafted into the investigation team.