Family of Karl Holmes say they accept the outcome of Garda investigation
By Mary Dennehy
THE family of Karl Holmes has told The Echo that they accept and respect the outcome of the Garda investigation into the death of the Tallaght father-of-three, who was laid to rest on Wednesday.
Last Thursday, gardaí launched a murder investigation into the death of Karl Holmes after he was discovered on the street in an unconscious state, following a dispute involving a number of males in Avonbeg Gardens.
Despite being treated at the scene by ambulance personnel, Mr Holmes (44) was later pronounced dead at Tallaght Hospital.
On Friday morning, gardaí officially launched a murder investigation into the death of the former boxer and an incident room was established at Tallaght Garda Station.
However, later that evening, following the results of a post mortem examination, Gardaí in Tallaght confirmed that they were now investigating Mr Holmes’ death as violent disorder, assault and a public order incident – after the post mortem revealed that Mr Holmes had an underlying heart condition and died from a heart attack.
A family friend, who spoke exclusively to The Echo on behalf of the Holmes family, said: “The family are absolutely devastated at the sudden loss of Karl and are numb with shock.
“No matter what the outcome of the investigation is, a life has been lost here and there are now three kids without a dad.
“The family are in utter shock at how a life was lost over something that started off so small, but the last few days have been made that little bit easier by the great support shown to them by their neighbours.”
According to local reports, the incident started when a child on a bike cycled into another child, a situation which escalated into a violent dispute – which involved Mr Holmes, who was known to gardaí, being assaulted and attacked with a number of objects, including, reportedly, a samurai sword.
The family friend said: “Karl was only 44 years of age and he didn’t know he had a heart condition.
“However, the family has accepted that he died from a heart attack brought on by the assault and they respect the garda’s position on it.”
Mr Holmes was brought to the crematorium on Wednesday, September 9, following a funeral Mass in St Dominic’s Church.
Gardaí have confirmed that they are continuing to appeal for witnesses to the incident, in particular anyone who was in the Avonbeg Gardens area between 4.30pm and 6pm on Thursday, September 3.
Anyone who can assist investigating officers is encouraged to contact Tallaght Garda Station on 6666000, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any garda station.
The incident has also been raised with South Dublin County Council.
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