A man in his 40s is thought to have murdered his young son and then travelled to his ex-partner’s home where he took his life. 

Yesterday morning, Gardaí were called out to property in Cherry Orchard in Ballyfermot at 8.30. There they found the body of Wayne O’Reilly. 

After concern was raised about the whereabouts of his son, Oisín, Gardaí were dispatched to O’Reilly’s own property in Clondalkin. It was there that the body of Oísin Reddin was found. 

On Newstalk Breakfast, Irish Times Crime & Security Editor Conor Lally said a Garda inquiry into their deaths is now underway.   “The strongest line of inquiry being taken at the moment is that this is a case of murder-suicide,” he explained. 

“Now, we know from speaking to some of Wayne O'Reilly's friends at the scene yesterday that he had suffered from some form of mental health issues. 

“He had actually vanished with his son last October and on that occasion, the Gardaí launched an appeal for information about their whereabouts. They had both turned up then about 48 hours later, safe and well.

“But really, from that time, there were concerns about Wayne O'Reilly's state of mind.”

Those who knew him, thought he seemed better in recent months and he continued to share custody of Oisín with his former partner. 

Both the bodies of Wayne O’Reilly and Oísin Reddin will be sent for post-mortem examinations, the results of which will inform the Garda investigation into their deaths. 

While Oísin Reddin was never in care, the family were known to Tusla. 

“There always really is extreme shock when a child has died, I mean, this is a very young boy,” Mr Lally added. 

“He was in primary school, he should be going to school today and some of the locals did speak to us to express their shock. Others really didn't want to talk. 

“When Oísin Reddin’s remains were taken from that property in Clondalkin yesterday afternoon, local people were on the street, they formed a guard of honour for him as his remains were taken away. 

“And really, people just were in stunned silence at the scene, they couldn't quite comprehend what was after happening.”

If you have been impacted by any the issues discussed in this article, you can contact Samaritans on on 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.ie 

Main image: Oísin Reddin and Wayne O'Reilly.