Cork man charged with murder of father of three almost a year after death

Kieran Long was arrested at his Hollyhill home and appeared before Cork District Court on Wednesday afternoon

A 56-year-old Cork man has been charged with the murder of 38-year-old father of three Mark O'Connell almost a year after his death. Picture: RIP.ie.

A 56-year-old Cork man has been charged with the murder of a 38-year-old father of three, almost a year after his death.

Detective Garda Mick Dolan gave evidence at Cork District Court today, October 7, that he arrested Kieran Long at his home in Hollyhill and charged him with murder.

The charge states that on November 16, 2025, at Hollyville, Hollyhill, Cork, in the District Court area of Cork city, district number 19, he did murder Mark O’Connell, contrary to common law.

Mr Long, of 65 Ardcullen, Hollyhill, was formally arrested, charged and cautioned that he did not have to say anything, but that anything he did say would be taken down in writing and given in evidence.

He made no reply, Detective Garda Dolan told the court.

It was reported at the time that Mr O’Connell sustained stab wounds and subsequently died.

Mr Long was arrested on Tuesday night, October 6, taken to Gurranabraher Garda station and charged before being brought before Cork District Court today.

Remanded in custody

Sergeant David Fleming told the court that the Director of Public Prosecutions had directed a trial by indictment at the Central Criminal Court and had also consented to a signed plea of guilty being entered at the district court for sentencing at the Central Criminal Court, should that arise.

The district court does not have jurisdiction to hear a bail application on a murder charge.

Judge David Waters remanded Mr Long in custody until October 14.

Defence solicitor Shane Collins-Daly said on behalf of Mr Long: “He understands the district court cannot grant bail in this case which is unfortunate as he has cooperated from the outset and has instructed me to make an application for bail in the High Court.

“He will be pleading not guilty. He has maintained his innocence at all times on this allegation.” 

Mr Long, who wore black jeans and a white T-shirt, left Courtroom 1 at Cork District Court in custody this afternoon.