Gardaí investigate factors behind 'suicide plan' at shopping centre

Sources believe Evan Fitzgerald had decided where to go — Fairgreen Shopping Centre — knowing it would have people there. Picture: michaelorourkephotography.ie

As it stands, the shocking events at a shopping centre in Carlow on Sunday are being treated primarily as a personal tragedy.

Mental health issues experienced by Evan Fitzgerald and the impact of the dark side of the internet on him are being suggested as possible factors. The reality of a potential lengthy sentence for serious firearms offences the 22-year-old was facing may also have weighed on his mind.