Fresh appeal over murder of 20-year-old Dublin father 17 years ago

Paul Byrne was last seen leaving in a car with other men near the family home on Kilmartin Avenue on July 29, 2010.

Gardaí are appealing to people previously close to those suspected of murdering a 20-year-old father to give “some comfort” to a heartbroken family by coming forward.

The remains of Paul Byrne were discovered 15 years ago, on July 15, 2010, in woodland near Blessington, Co Wicklow, a short drive from his home in Jobstown, Tallaght, south west Dublin.

He was last seen leaving in a car with other men near the family home on Kilmartin Avenue on July 29, 2009.

At the time he disappeared, his partner, Martina McQuillan, was expecting their second child.

Gardai have arrested five people for the murder and previously sent a file to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), but no charges were brought.

Detectives believe people in the local community have evidence that could fill in the gaps and enable a fresh file to be sent to the DPP.

“We are appealing to associates Paul had at the time, whose allegiances over the years have changed, to come forward,” Detective Inspector Seamus Ryan said.

“Our appeal may prompt people who have had relationships with these people to assist us.” 

He said there were people in the local community who have information: “There are some people who may have a small bit of information; there are people who know more.

“They are all pieces of the puzzle, when put together, could be crucial – and also provide some level of comfort to the family”.

Paul’s family reported him missing after he was last seen in a car with three other men close to his house.

The gap of a year in the discovery of his body affected the gathering of any DNA in relation to suspects.

It is understood that Paul had become entangled with what local sources told the Irish Examiner was a “dangerous gang”, who suspected him of losing a stash of drugs.

“These were violent individuals, and Paul was seen as having crossed them," one source said, "so they marked him out and wanted to send a message to other people that they were not to be messed with”. 

Gardaí investigated five suspects, including the person they believe is the main suspect. Sources said the gang has “imploded” over the years and members “scattered”.

This main suspect, now in his early 40s, has previous, lengthy convictions for major drug seizures and, in 2023, was apprehended with a small quantity while in garda custody.

He recently got out of prison and has gone abroad.

People can contact Blessington Garda Station [phone], the Garda Confidential Line 1800 666 111 or any station.