The tragic death of Patrick Nugent, a 23-year-old chef from Sixmilebridge, County Clare, has been shrouded in mystery for nearly four decades. On February 11, 1984, Nugent was found critically injured in the car park of Bunratty Castle and Folk Park, where he had worked at a wedding anniversary party. Although a coroner’s jury recorded a verdict of accidental death, Nugent’s family has always suspected foul play and pushed for further investigation.

Now, 40 years after his death, Nugent’s body has been exhumed as part of a fresh Garda investigation, bringing renewed hope to his family, who are determined to uncover the truth. The exhumation marks a significant step in re-examining the circumstances surrounding his death using modern forensic and investigative techniques.

The Incident and Suspicion of Foul Play

On the night of his death, Nugent was overseeing a wedding anniversary celebration at Bunratty Castle. In the early hours, he was found fatally injured in the car park, and despite being rushed to Barrington’s Hospital in Limerick, he succumbed to his injuries. Witnesses reported Nugent muttering the words “he clocked me” before losing consciousness. Although a man was charged with manslaughter, he was acquitted at trial, and no further charges were pursued.

However, Nugent’s family and supporters have long believed that his death was not accidental. Their suspicions have led to the reopening of the case, with Gardaí now re-examining witness testimonies and forensic evidence.

Modern Investigation Brings Hope

Gardaí launched a new investigation in 2022, led by Detective Inspector David Finnerty, with the support of advanced forensic technology and expert consultants, including forensic anthropologist Dr. Laureen Buckley. A key focus is the re-examination of the car park where Nugent was found, with fresh analyses to determine whether his injuries were consistent with being struck by a vehicle or if there were other contributing factors.

The exhumation was conducted at Feenagh Cemetery in Sixmilebridge, and a formal state post-mortem is set to be carried out by Assistant State Pathologist Dr. Heidi Okkers. The investigation also includes interviews with more than 100 witnesses who were present on the night of Nugent’s death.

Justice After 40 Years?

For the Nugent family, the reopening of the case brings a renewed sense of hope. They have endured decades of uncertainty and are determined to uncover the truth. As Detective Inspector Finnerty put it, “Patrick’s family deserves to know what happened,” and with modern forensic science at their side, there’s a chance that justice for Patrick Nugent may finally be within reach.

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