Man arrested in connection with murder of Kerry farmer Michael Gaine

Suspect in his 50s detained for questioning as gardaí continue investigation into missing Kerry farmer’s death

Michael Gaine

A man has been arrested in connection with the disappearance and murder of Kerry farmer Michael Gaine. 

The 56-year-old was reported missing from his home near Kenmare on Friday, March 21, 2025.

However, in May last year, human tissue found on his farm was identified as his remains. 

In an update on Tuesday morning, gardaí said they have arrested a man in his 50s.

He is being detained for questioning under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act 1984 at a garda station in the Kerry Garda Division.

The Serious Crime Unit in Kerry Division is leading the investigation, with support from the Garda National Bureau of Criminal Investigation (GNBCI).

Gardaí, through family liaison officers, continue to liaise with and support Michael Gaine’s family.

"Investigations are ongoing," a garda spokesperson said. 

Mr Gaine was last seen at a Centra supermarket in Kenmare town, and had bought a sandwich and mobile phone credit on the morning of March 20. 

Since his disappearance, hundreds of people joined to search his 1,000-acre farm. This included soldiers, Kerry Mountain Rescue, Civil Defence, and local volunteers. The Garda Water Unit Team was also involved in the search. 

Last May, gardaí arrested and questioned a former US soldier on suspicion of Mr Gaine's murder. Mike Kelley was released without charge a day later. He has denied killing Mr Gaine in media interviews.