Crossmaglen pay tribute to All-Ireland winner Hughes

Armagh club Crossmaglen Rangers have released a statement paying tribute to one of their players James Hughes, who was tragically killed in a shotgun attack in Dundalk yesterday.

Hughes was a talented Gaelic footballer who won three All-Ireland Club SFC medals with Cross and led their seconds side to league success last year.

The 35-year-old was shot dead by a man who approached a taxi which had pulled up outside a house in Cluain Ard, Lis Na Dara, Dundalk, in the early hours of Sunday morning.

Hughes was understood to be travelling with a 21-year-old woman and both she and the 48-year-old taxi driver were injured during the incident. They were taken to hospital but their injuries are not thought to be life threatening.

A 32-year-old man later presented himself at Carrickmacross Garda Station, where he was arrested in connection with the murder.

The statement issued by Crossmaglen Rangers read: "The Committee, players and members of Crossmaglen Rangers GFC are shocked and saddened by the untimely death of our friend and colleague James and along with the entire local community are devastated at this tragic event.

"James was a valued and committed member of our club, part of our successful senior team panel for over 10 years, he won three All-Ireland Club medals and more recently captained our seconds team to League success in 2010. He will be sadly missed by all of his friends and colleagues within the club.

"We extend our deepest and heartfelt sympathy to his family and friends. Our thoughts and prayers are with them at this very difficult time. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam."

Armagh's legendary forward Steven McDonnell, who played against Hughes for Killeavy, tweeted: "RIP James Hughes. Such a good lad. Totally shocked."