Police in Dublin are investigating the suspected murder-suicide of a father and his young son, three months after the pair were initially reported missing.
Tragic Discovery in Two Locations
The body of Wayne O'Reilly, 48, was discovered in a shed in the Ballyfermot area of Dublin at approximately 8.30am on Thursday, January 8, 2026. Following this discovery, Gardaí carried out further enquiries which led them to a house in Clondalkin, roughly three miles away.
There, they found the body of his 12-year-old son, Oisin. The boy, described as a keen Manchester United fan who carried a red schoolbag, was removed from the scene at around 3.20pm in front of distressed onlookers.
Previous Missing Persons Report
The tragedy comes after the father and son were reported missing to Gardaí on October 17, 2025, prompting a nationwide alert. On that occasion, they were located safe and well days later.
At the time, police stated the family were "concerned for their well-being". This previous incident has now raised difficult questions about whether the later deaths could have been prevented.
A friend of Mr O'Reilly told the Irish Mirror he last spoke to him about two weeks prior and that he seemed in good form. "He absolutely doted on (the little boy)," the friend said.
Community in Shock and Grief
The close-knit communities of Ballyfermot and Clondalkin have been left reeling by the news. Sinn Féin councillor for Ballyfermot, Daithí Doolan, said: "This is deeply distressing news. The whole community is in shock."
He extended the community's deepest sympathy to the family and friends of the deceased, pledging support for the "long and painful journey ahead".
Clondalkin councillor Francis Timmons also expressed his shock, stating his thoughts were with the families and friends, as well as Oisin's school friends who are "in shock and upset" by the death of their classmate.
Ongoing Investigation
An Garda Síochána has confirmed both scenes have been preserved for forensic examination by the Garda Technical Bureau. The Coroner and the Office of the State Pathologist have been notified.
Post-mortem examinations are to be arranged, the results of which will be crucial in determining the precise course of the investigation. In an official statement, Gardaí said they are not currently seeking anyone else in connection with the deaths.
It is understood that the boy's mother has been informed of the tragedy. Reports suggest Mr O'Reilly, a skilled mechanic who ran a car sales business, had been living with his son in a room of a house belonging to other family members prior to their deaths.
Friends have indicated that Mr O'Reilly, while popular, had been struggling with his mental health and addiction issues in recent years. "None of his friends saw this coming at all," one friend stated.
