Fiosrú opens investigation into death of Detective Garda Colm Horkan

Garda watchdog Fiosrú has opened an investigation into the death of former Detective Garda Colm Horkan.

Mr Horkan, who was from Charlestown, Co Mayo, was shot 11 times on June 17, 2020, after his assailant took his firearm while he was on duty in Castlerea, Co Roscommon.

Fiosrú has received a request from the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration for it to conduct an independent investigation into matters concerning the safety and suitability of the firearm holster used by Detective Garda Colm Horkan at the time of the incident in which he was murdered.

Mr O'Callaghan made the request for a public interest investigation in a letter to Police Ombudsman Emily Logan on Monday, November 2, 2026.

The Police Ombudsman has been in contact with Mr Horkan’s family.

Stephen Silver was sentenced to life for the murder of Mr Horkan. 

In a statement issued last month, the Horkan family called for a public inquiry, saying there were a number of questions involving Det Gda Horkan’s murder that remained unanswered.

Last month, Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly committed to meeting the Horkan family.

Fiosrú will now commence its independent investigation, and will make no further comment at this time.