Urgent Appeal: Gardai Seek Information in Dessie Fox Murder 35 Years Later

UPDATE: On the 35th anniversary of the shocking murder of Dessie Fox, authorities at Naas Garda Station have renewed their urgent appeal for information that could lead to justice. The well-known bookmaker was fatally shot on September 30, 1990, at Healy’s Bridge, Prosperous, and investigators believe vital clues may still exist among the public.

At approximately 11:15 AM on that fateful day, Dessie Fox, 47, left his home in Dungannon, County Tyrone, driving his white Mercedes 250D (registration MJI 7005). He was headed to a race meeting at the Curragh but never made it. Just after 1:20 PM, he was spotted exiting Connolly’s Newsagents in Prosperous Village, where he was seen with a newspaper under his arm.

As he made his way back to his car, a red vehicle—believed to be a Toyota Carina with false registration 90G2506—followed closely behind. Suddenly, shots rang out, targeting Mr. Fox’s vehicle, damaging the rear indicator and deflating a front tire. Despite his efforts to escape, his car veered off the road and came to a stop.

The assailants approached and fired a single handgun round through the passenger door, striking Mr. Fox in both legs. Tragically, he succumbed to his injuries on the scene. The raiders stole a black leather briefcase containing cash, a canvas money bag, and even a Motorola car phone. While the canvas bag was later recovered, the case remains unsolved.

The Toyota Carina used in the attack was discovered abandoned in a field at Powerstown, Blanchardstown, on October 1, 1990. This car had been reported stolen just days prior, on September 26. Witnesses reported seeing a grey Mitsubishi Gallant traveling with the Carina, with a man in a Puma cap observed moving between the two vehicles at O’Grady’s Filling Station in Painstown, Co. Kildare.

In the aftermath of the murder, 17 people were arrested and questioned. In May 2018, two additional suspects were taken into custody, but the investigation remains open. As the anniversary of this horrific crime approaches, Gardai are urging anyone with information—no matter how small—to step forward.

Detectives emphasize that all information will be treated with the utmost confidentiality. Anyone with relevant details is encouraged to contact Naas Garda Station at 045 884300 or the Garda Confidential Line at 1800 666 111.

As time passes, the hope for justice remains, and every piece of information could be crucial in solving this heartbreaking case. Share this urgent appeal and help bring closure to the Fox family and the community affected by this tragic loss.