In the early hours of May 8, 2025, a drive-by shooting on Hyde Road in Limerick reignited fears of a resurgence in gang-related violence that once plagued the city. A masked gunman, reportedly wearing surgical gloves, fired nine shots from a moving vehicle, targeting three houses, including the residence of former state witness April Collins. The incident, captured on video by the assailant, has been widely circulated online, drawing parallels to the violent feuds of the late 1990s and early 2000s.

A Troubling Echo of the Past

Limerick’s history with gang violence is deeply rooted, with the infamous feud between the Keane-Collopy and McCarthy-Dundon gangs resulting in numerous fatalities and a climate of fear. The recent attack on Hyde Road, a known flashpoint during the previous conflicts, has raised concerns about a potential return to those dark days. The fact that the shooting was filmed and disseminated suggests a brazen attempt to intimidate and assert dominance.

April Collins, whose testimony was instrumental in the convictions of several gang members, had returned to Hyde Road in 2023. Her presence is believed to have reignited tensions, leading to a series of violent incidents, including the recent drive-by shooting.

Community Response and Calls for Peace

The attack has left residents shaken and fearful. Local priest, Fr. Richard Keane, expressed deep concern over the escalating violence, stating, “Ultimately, if it continues going the way it is going, it will end up with loss of life.” He plans to hold an open-air mass to pray for peace and encourage community solidarity. Fr. Keane emphasized the importance of youth engagement and praised local schools and community centers for their efforts in steering young people away from criminal activities.

Law Enforcement and Government Action

In response to the uptick in violence, Gardaí have increased patrols and established nightly armed checkpoints in areas identified as potential hotspots. The Garda Emergency Response Unit has been actively involved in these operations. Additionally, the Cork-based bomb disposal unit has been deployed multiple times to handle pipe bombs seized in Limerick’s criminal strongholds.

Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan has pledged to provide Gardaí with the necessary resources to address the escalating situation. However, community leaders argue that more comprehensive measures, including sustained investment in social programs and youth initiatives, are essential to address the root causes of the violence.

The Role of Social Media and Public Perception

The dissemination of the shooting video on social media platforms has amplified public anxiety. The footage, showing the gunman firing indiscriminately at residential homes, serves as a stark reminder of the potential for violence to spill into civilian life. It also raises questions about the role of digital platforms in either deterring or inadvertently glorifying such acts.

The recent drive-by shooting on Hyde Road is a chilling reminder of Limerick’s tumultuous past with gang violence. While law enforcement agencies are taking steps to curb the resurgence, community leaders stress the importance of addressing underlying issues such as poverty, lack of opportunities, and social disenfranchisement. A multifaceted approach, combining robust policing with community engagement and social investment, is crucial to prevent a full-scale return to the violence that once gripped the city.

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