Man accused of murdering mother in Ballinlough remanded in custody

David Gallagher remains in custody as the court awaits DPP directions on charges relating to his mother’s death and father’s assault

David Gallagher is charged with murdering his 59-year-old mother, Stella Gallagher, and assault causing harm to his 63-year-old father, Brian Gallagher. Picture: Eddie O'Hare

The 25-year-old man charged with murdering his mother and injuring his father outside the family home in Ballinlough last week appeared in court again by video link from prison on Wednesday.

David Gallagher is charged with murdering his 59-year-old mother, Stella Gallagher, and assault causing harm to his 63-year-old father, Brian Gallagher.

On the application of Sergeant Gearóid Davis, Judge Mark O’Connell remanded the young man in continuing custody until December 10 to allow time for directions from the Director of Public Prosecutions.

Shane Collins-Daly, solicitor, represented the defendant, who was not required to speak during the brief hearing on Wednesday.

Detective Sergeant Niall Hayes filed two charges last week against David Gallagher of Shrewsbury Downs, Ballinlough, Cork.

The first charge stated: “On November 17, 2025, at Shrewsbury Downs, Ballinlough, in the District Court area of Cork city, district number 19, he did murder Stella Gallagher, contrary to common law.”

The second charge stated: “On November 17, 2025, at Shrewsbury Downs, Ballinlough, in the District Court area of Cork city, district number 19, he did assault Brian Gallagher causing him harm, contrary to Section 3 of the Non-Fatal Offences Against the Person Act.”

Mr Collins-Daly said last week: “I would ask the court to direct that he receive urgent medical and psychiatric evaluation on his arrival in Cork Prison.” 

Judge John King acceded to that application.

The funeral of the late Stella Gallagher took place on Tuesday at Our Lady of Lourdes Church in Ballinlough.