Mallow murder investigation after Cork man Paul ‘Bosco’ O’Connor found dead

Mr O'Connor, who was aged in his 50s and was from the Ballyphehane area of Cork city, suffered gunshot wounds after possibly being shot from a very close range.

He died at the scene where his body was found. 

Bullet casings are believed to have been found near the body.

Mr O'Connor was killed in the hours before his body was discovered on the banks of the River Blackwater at Ballyellis, on the outskirts of Mallow, at about 1.30pm on Thursday.

His body was removed from the scene and an autopsy was conducted by State pathologist Margaret Bolster. 

The results of the autopsy are not being released for operational reasons.

An incident room has been established at Mallow Garda Station and a senior investigating officer has been appointed. 

A family liaison officer has also been appointed to support and inform the family.

Up to 30 gardaí were at the scene on Friday, combing the area for evidence.

Gardaí were analysing CCTV footage from the area and made door-to-door inquiries. 

Mr O'Connor was wearing a dark green hooded jacket, khaki-coloured combat trousers, and black runners. It is believed that he travelled from Kent Train Station in the city to Mallow on Wednesday, arriving shortly after 7.20pm.

The area where Mr O'Connor's body was found is close to a wastewater treatment plant. 

Locals described the area as a tranquil spot popular with dog walkers and families.

However, its relatively secluded location means it is also understood to be frequented by people drinking alcohol and consuming other substances.

Investigating gardaí are appealing to anyone who was on the train between Kent and Mallow stations that evening, or who may have seen the man in Mallow between 7.20pm on October 14 and 1.30pm on October 15, to come forward.

Gardaí are also seeking information from anyone who was in the vicinity of the River Blackwater at Ballyellis during that period.

Road users and pedestrians who were in the area and may have camera footage, including dashcam recordings, are asked to make it available to investigators.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Mallow Garda Station on (022) 31450, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda station.