Investigation launched after male inmate dies in Wheatfield Prison

Investigation launched after male inmate dies in Wheatfield Prison Brendan Gahan, 39, died following an assault in his cell at Wheatfield Prison in west Dublin on Thursday — just eight months after he was first imprisoned there An investigation has been launched following the death fo an inmate at a prison in Dublin. Brendan Gahan, 39, died following an assault in his cell at Wheatfield Prison in west Dublin at approximately 10pm on Thursday — eight months after he was first imprisoned there. It is understood Mr Gahan, originally from Tallaght, sustained a single wound to the neck during the attack, however the blade severed an artery, resulting in catastrophic blood loss. Mr Gahan had been in custody since December last year, having admitted two counts of possessing drugs with intent to supply, reports the Irish Mirror. Judge Orla Crowe handed down a three year and nine month sentence to him at Dublin District Court in February — backdated to 17 December when he entered custody following his guilty plea. The judge also suspended the final year of the sentence, which, combined with standard remission, meant Mr Gahan would have been released from Wheatfield in early January 2028. Gardaí confirmed on Friday morning that the force was investigating a death at the facility. A spokeswoman said: "Gardaí are investigating all circumstances surrounding the discovery of the body of a male (in his 30s) on Thursday 13th of August 2026 in Wheatfield Prison, Clondalkin, Dublin 22. "A Senior Investigating Officer has been assigned to investigate the circumstances surrounding the death of the male. A Family Liaison Officer has been assigned to support the family of the deceased. The services of the Garda National Technical Bureau have been requested. "The Coroner's Office has been notified. Investigating Gardaí await the results of a post-mortem to determine the direction of the investigation." Alongside the Garda investigation, the Irish Prison Service confirmed it was conducting its own inquiry into the death. A spokesman said: "The Irish Prison Service can confirm a death in custody at Wheatfield Prison on 13 August 2026. "All deaths in custody are investigated by the Irish Prison Service, the Inspector of Prisons and An Garda Síochána, where circumstances warrant. The cause of death is determined by the Coroner's Office. The Irish Prison Service wish to express our condolences to the deceased's family and friends. "Next of kin have been informed." Heartbroken friends and family members of Mr Gahan turned to social media on Friday to share tributes to him. One relative wrote: "Brendan passed away yesterday. We are all heart broken. Hope you get the best bed in heaven. Sleep tight, love you." One man responded: "Rest easy, Brendan." While a woman said: "Bren was such a lovely guy. Rest in peace Brendan."