Death Of Detective Ben O’Sullivan, Old Park Road, Corbally, Co Limerick.

It was with sadness that we learned of the death today, Friday 25th February 2022, of 76 year old, retired Detective Mr Ben O’Sullivan, Old Park Road, Corbally, Co Limerick and formerly of Mallow, Co. Cork.

Mr O’Sullivan had survived an IRA gun attack in Adare, Co. Limerick on the morning of June 7th 1996, almost 26 years ago; a heinous event that resulted, sadly, in the death of his colleague Detective Mr Jerry McCabe.

Both men were accompanying a post office cash van, when they were attacked, by a four man gang of IRA criminals.
Retired Detective O’Sullivan, who had been ill for a short time, is today survived by his wife Anne, his son and two daughters.

In a press statement today on behalf of the Irish nation, Minister for justice Mrs Helen McEntee, stated:
“Like so many people, I was deeply saddened today to hear of the death of Detective Garda Ben O’Sullivan.

In this centenary year of An Garda Síochána, there is little doubt that Ben O’Sullivan represented the very best of its values, service and bravery.
Twice awarded a Gold Scott medal, Ben served his country with great courage and valour, selflessly taking on the burden of protecting all of us from danger. We thank him for his unstinting service and we mourn his passing.

The horrific attack on Mr O’Sullivan and his partner; latter the late Detective Garda Mr Jerry McCabe, on June 7th 1996, was one of the most sickening attacks on Garda members, in the history of the State.

While Mr McCabe’s life was taken instantly, Mr O’Sullivan was shot eleven times and left with serious injuries, along with the devastating loss of his great friend.

The Irish people will never forget that day and the bravery of both men and all their colleagues.

On behalf of the Government and my Department, I send my deepest sympathies to Mr O’Sullivan‘s wife Anne, their children and grandchildren, and all his many friends and colleagues in An Garda Síochána.”

Note: Detective O’Sullivan was given the Freedom of the City of Limerick in June 2018; with same also awarded posthumously to Detective Jerry McCabe.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.