The Irish Times, 16 February 1922
   At Springfield road barracks there was a distressing accident which resulted in the death of Police Sergeant Eugene Ahern.
   So far as can be learned, one of the men in the barracks pulled the trigger of a machine-gun under the impression that it was empty, one cartridge, however, remained, and Ahern received a wound to which he succumbed.
Submitted by dja
The Irish Times, 25 February 1922
IRISH POLICE NOTES AND NEWS
   A tragic occurrence took place on Wednesday last by which Sergeant Eugene Ahearn lost his life. The sergeant had returned to the barracks after having been on patrol duty in the district. One of the men carried a machine gun, which he proceeded to unload. He removed the drum, but a cartridge which had been in the barrel was discharged accidentally, and the bullet entered the unfortunate sergeant's side. Sergeant Ahearn was at once conveyed to the Royal Victoria Hospital, a few hundred yards from the barrack, but he died soon after admission. A native of Cork, and about fifty-six years of age, deceased leaves a widow and young family.
   Impressive scenes were witnessed at the funeral on Friday last, when the remains were removed from the deceased's late residence, 283 Falls road. The interment was made at Milltown Cemetery, and all along the line of route large crowds of sympathisers watched the mournful procession.
   The City Commissioner, Mr. J. F. Gelston, and County Inspector Attridge attended, and a large funeral party of R.I.C., under command of District Inspector Deignan, followed the hearse, the men marching with arms reversed. At the home of the deceased and at the graveside touching Services were conducted by Father Greaven, St. Paul's. The band, under Mr. G. C. Ferguson, was present, and as the remains left the house and as they were conveyed to the graveyard played the Dead March in Saul. Floral tributes were many, including one from the comrades of deceased at Brickfields Barracks and Springfield road. The chief mourners were George (son), and ex-Sergeant McDermott (brother-in-law).
Submitted by dja

Ireland Home Page
County Dublin

IMPORTANT NOTICE: All rights to the pages found within this site are retained by the original submitter of the information. Pages may be printed or copied for personal use only. They may NOT be reproduced in any form in whole or in part by any individual or organization for profit.