Murder brings back memories of ‘awful times’

THE heavy Garda presence in rural Cahersiveen following the murder of Robert Elston brought back memories of other traumatic events for locals.

The breathtaking landscape and tranquillity of the Co Kerry village was interrupted by Garda cars, crime scene tape and door-to-door enquiries.

As the sun shone, many residents of Fertha Drive, where this tragedy occurred, sat outside their homes discussing the horrific killing.

Older teenagers and young adults gathered in groups and appeared visibly distraught.

You didn’t have to go far to hear mention of a local scandal that rocked the nation to its core.

“Nothing like this ever happens around here – it’s the first tragedy since the Kerry Babies case back in 1984,” said one woman.

“I know it’s entirely different, but with all the commotion and the guards knocking around to each house it brings me back to that awful time.”

Another resident was worried the violent occurrence would damage Cahersiveen’s reputation.

“It took a very long time for the town to recover its good name after the Kerry Babies scandal,” they said.

“I really hope the media doesn’t fail to mention the goodness that this community offers.”

But as locals attempted to get their heads around the events of early yesterday morning, the fact that a six-year-old boy had lost his father was never far from anyone’s thoughts.

Throughout the day, the young child ran around the estate playing with his many friends.

Mr Elston’s family are enduring a pain that few will ever have to experience.