Appeal for information into Stephen’s murder

By Mary Dennehy

CRIMESTOPPERS has this week launched an appeal for information on the death of Tallaght father of three, Stephen Lynch, in April 2017.

Stephen Lynch (31) lost his life after he was deliberately run over by a car on Brookview Close at around 6.50pm on April 13 2017.

Father of three Stephen Lynch with his mam Vera

It is believed that the young father, whom gardai have confirmed was not involved in criminality, was walking in the area when he became involved in a verbal dispute with four men travelling in a silver Ford Focus.

Since Stephen’s death, the community of Tallaght has stood behind his family, sharing their grief, despair and anger over the tragic loss of the father-of-three, who, a massive Shamrock Rovers fan, is remembered by friends and family as a genuine, funny and caring lad.

In February of this year, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) ruled that there would be no prosecutions in the case.

Speaking with The Echo at the time, Stephen’s mother Vera Donovan expressed her devastation over the ruling, and made a desperate plea once again for anybody with information to come forward.

Six months since the DPP ruling, Crimestoppers has launched an appeal for information.

In its appeal, Crimestoppers said: “On Thursday 13 April 2017 at approximately 6.50pm, Stephen Lynch was walking on Brookview Close, Tallaght, when he was deliberately struck by the driver of a Ford Focus, registration 10 WW 1812.

“Both the driver and at least one passenger fled the scene on foot and, to date, have not been identified.

“Crimestoppers and the gardai are appealing for members of the public to come forward with any information relating to this murder, and assist in helping to identify the driver of the Ford Focus.”

Calls to Crimestoppers are completely anonymous and callers do not need to leave their name or address.

Callers can claim a reward for information that significantly helps the investigation.

Speaking this week, Tallaght Superintendent Ian Lackey said: “I would appeal to anyone who has even the smallest piece of information to come forward.

“I particularly appeal to those in the Brookview Close area of Tallaght.

“Can you help us positively identify the driver of this vehicle that fatally struck Stephen Lynch at 6.50pm on Thursday, April 2017.

“Although some time has passed, any information you have which may seem insignificant to you might help with the investigation.

“If a member of the public prefers to give the information without identifying themselves, they can call Crimestoppers on 1800 25 00 25.”

Irish Crimestoppers Trust was set up in 1998 to provide a confidential means for every citizen to report crime.

According to Crimestoppers Chairman, John Murphy: “Members of the public can call Crimestoppers with potentially valuable information about any crime without leaving their name or personal details.

“The ability to give information anonymously can be an important incentive and could help solve a case and secure a conviction.

“I would appeal to anyone with information in relation to this case to get in touch.”

Call Crimestoppers on 1800 25 00 25, or visit www.crimestoppers.ie.