Detective Garda Jerry McCabe, who was shot dead by an IRA gang during a post office raid in Adare, County Limerick, in June 1996, has been remembered 30 years on. A mass was held at Holy Rosary Church in Limerick on Sunday, attended by Tánaiste Simon Harris, who called McCabe a dedicated servant of the State who gave his life in the line of duty.
Ann McCabe Speaks of Forever Grief
Speaking after the mass, McCabe's widow Ann said grief is not just for now but forever. She recalled how her life stood still on June 7, 1996. McCabe, a father of five, was on duty with his partner Detective Ben O'Sullivan when their unmarked patrol car was rammed by a Jeep driven by a Provisional IRA unit. The attackers then opened fire, killing McCabe and seriously wounding O'Sullivan, who died in 2022. Four people were convicted of manslaughter in 1999.
Investigation Still Active
Chief Superintendent Derek Smart of the Limerick Garda Division confirmed the investigation remains very much live and appealed for anyone with information to come forward. He noted that the world is becoming smaller and that people are being brought home to face their actions, expressing hope that the case will be closed for the McCabe and O'Sullivan families.
Ann McCabe described her late husband as a peaceful man who loved his job and always brought laughter. She noted that on the day he was killed, his patrol car had a sticker reading 'I'm for peace.' She paid tribute to her family, friends, An Garda Síochána, and the victims group SEFF for their support.
Legacy of Service
SEFF director Kenny Donaldson attended the mass, praising the McCabe family's dedication to service, noting that both McCabe's son and grandson have served in An Garda Síochána. McCabe, originally from County Kerry, worked as a mechanic before joining the force in 1964. He was posthumously awarded the Scott Gold Medal in 2000.
