Man Released After Fatal Stabbing of Cork Father-of-Three

A 55-year-old man detained in connection with the fatal stabbing of a father in Cork has been released from custody without charge. The incident involved Mark O’Connell, a 38-year-old father-of-three who was attacked at a residence in Hollyville, Hollyhill on the morning of March 17, 2025.

According to Gardaí, O’Connell suffered multiple stab wounds during a confrontation with a man who was babysitting at the house. Witnesses indicated that a dispute escalated, resulting in the stabbing taking place in the driveway. A neighbor alerted emergency services, and O’Connell was transported to Cork University Hospital. He was conscious upon their arrival but sadly succumbed to his injuries shortly afterward.

A postmortem examination conducted by Assistant State Pathologist Dr. Margot Bolster confirmed that O’Connell died as a result of violent trauma. Following the incident, Gardaí cordoned off the area to conduct a forensic examination, during which they recovered several knives from the scene. Additionally, they collected CCTV footage from the vicinity to help clarify the events leading up to the stabbing.

The suspect was initially detained under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act 1984, which permits police to hold individuals for up to 24 hours. He was released without charge shortly before 20:00 on Monday evening. Officers at Gurranabraher Garda Station confirmed that a comprehensive investigation file will be compiled and submitted to the Director of Public Prosecutions for further consideration.

In the wake of this tragedy, a family liaison officer has been assigned to support O’Connell’s family. O’Connell resided in Fairfield Green, Farranree, and was employed with Northside Community Enterprises in Cork. The community is mourning the loss of a devoted father and valued member, as the investigation continues into the circumstances surrounding this incident.