A family in Dublin is mourning a second tragic loss after Thomas Griffin, a 32-year-old boxer, died following a suspected assault near the War Memorial Gardens in Islandbridge. His death comes just over a decade after his younger brother James was fatally stabbed at a club event.
The Incident
Police believe Thomas Griffin was slashed across the face and body in an attack at the War Memorial Gardens, west Dublin, at approximately 10pm on Saturday, 30th May 2026. It is thought he attempted to flee his attackers by plunging into the River Liffey. Emergency services rescued him, but despite the efforts of paramedics and doctors, he was later pronounced dead at St. James' Hospital on Sunday, 31st May.
Family's Previous Heartbreak
The Griffin family, from Ballyfermot, had already endured the loss of James Griffin, known as 'Jay', who was stabbed multiple times in the neck, torso, and arm at the Celtic Gladiators Private Members Club on 16th November 2014. His killers fled the scene in a taxi, and no one has been brought to justice for that crime.
Tributes to Thomas
Thomas was a passionate boxer who trained at St Matthews Boxing Club in Ballyfermot. Professional boxer Luke Keeler paid tribute on social media, calling Thomas "one of the very best fighters to come out of St. Matthews BC and Ballyfermot." Local councillor Daithi Doolan expressed his condolences and called for answers, saying the family deserves to know what happened.
Police Investigation
Gardaí in Ballyfermot are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident. They are awaiting the results of a post-mortem examination. Officers have appealed for witnesses, particularly anyone with dash-cam footage from the area between 9pm and 10:45pm on Saturday, 30th May 2026. Anyone with information is asked to contact Clondalkin Garda Station or the Garda Confidential Line.
This devastating event has shaken the local community, as a family grieves a second violent loss in just over a decade.
