Gardaí investigating Ian Baitson killing in Cobh arrest man on suspicion of murder

Ian Baitson, 32, died at CUH on Tuesday, four days after suffering severe slash wounds when he was attacked with a sword

It is understood that Ian Baitson was attacked after approaching a man in a car, who fled the scene immediately after the attack

Gardaí investigating the killing of Ian Baitson in Cobh, Co Cork have arrested a man on suspicion of murder.

The man, aged in his 30s, is being held at a garda station in Co Cork since Friday evening under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act 1984.

Mr Baitson, 32, died at Cork University Hospital (CUH) on Tuesday, four days after suffering severe slash wounds when he was attacked with a sword in the car park of Eurospar on Newtown Rd in Cobh shortly before 9pm on Friday, March 15.

The chef suffered severe blood loss in the attack and was rushed to CUH where his condition remained critical throughout the weekend.

In a statement, gardaí said that “no further information” was available on the arrest.

It is understood that Mr Baitson was attacked after approaching a man in a car, who fled the scene immediately after the attack.

An autopsy was carried out and prompted gardaí to upgrade their investigation to a murder probe.

A garda spokesperson said: “A post-mortem examination has now been carried out and preliminary results have been provided to investigating gardaí.

“Although results are not being released for operational reasons, gardaí have now commenced a murder investigation.

“A senior investigating officer is leading the investigation, and a designated garda family liaison officer is providing continuous support to the family of the deceased, ensuring they are kept informed of developments.”