Dublin murder-suicide 12-year-old boy and father found dead

Investigation into Murder-Suicide of 12-Year-Old Boy in Dublin

A devastated relative discovered the body of a 12-year-old boy who was killed in a murder-suicide, the Irish Sun has learned.

Young Oisin O’Reilly was found lifeless at his home on Lealand Drive in Clondalkin, west Dublin this morning.

His father, Wayne O’Reilly, was found dead at a separate location.

Detectives believe Wayne murdered his son before taking his own life.

Details of the Incident

Wayne O’Reilly’s body was found at Cherry Orchard Drive in Ballyfermot at 8:30 AM. Detectives suspect he killed Oisin in the early hours of Thursday morning at their home before fleeing.

They believe he then went to the second property in Ballyfermot where he took his own life in the back garden.

Due to previous interactions with gardai, concerns for Oisin’s welfare were raised.

Discovery and Investigation

A relative found Oisin’s body in the Clondalkin home. The gardai informed the child’s mother of the tragic news.

There were no visible signs of injuries on Oisin. Investigators are awaiting post-mortem results to confirm the cause of death.

Community Reaction

Locals expressed shock and sadness over the news. One resident said, “We’re just heartbroken. He was a gorgeous lad.”

Sinn Fein Councillor Daithí Doolan called it “deeply distressing news” and offered sympathy to the family.

Background Information

Oisin and Wayne were reported missing on October 17 last year but were found safe the next day. Gardai had previously engaged with Wayne over mental health issues, and he had a history of drug abuse.

Tusla, the child and family agency, confirmed that Oisin and his family were known to them but stated he was not in state care.

Forensic Investigation

The scene in Clondalkin was cordoned off for a forensic investigation. Oisin’s body remained at the house for several hours before being removed for a post-mortem.

Gardai are not looking for anyone else in relation to the investigation. They will thoroughly probe the case before sending a file to the coroner.

Official Statements

In a statement, gardai said they are investigating the circumstances surrounding the discovery of two bodies in Ballyfermot and Clondalkin on January 8, 2026.

The body of a male in his 40s was found in Ballyfermot, and the body of a male child was discovered in Clondalkin.

Tusla’s Response

A Tusla spokesperson stated, “The death of a child is a tragedy. Our thoughts are with the family and the local community.”