Man who died in garda custody named as Kildare local

33 year-old John Coyne was serving a partly suspended sentence for affray and is from Robertstown, Co Kildare. He had 34 previous convictions, including assault causing harm, threat to kill and false imprisonment.

He was found unresponsive at Kildare Garda Station at around 9.35am on Saturday, October 31st.

Although medical assistance was given at the scene, he was pronounced dead a short time later.

Due to his death taking place in custody, it has sparked an investigation by the Garda watchdog, Fiosru.

Earlier this year Coyne received a two-year sentence in March, with 12 months suspended, for his involvement in an affray in Castlefen estate, Sallins, Co Kildare on December 8th, 2021.

The court heard at the time that Coyne and three other men pursued a man they believed had played a role in the death of a friend.

He had been working to address drug and alcohol addiction at the time and apologised to the court and victim.

Meanwhile, pals have been paying tribute to the 33-year-old, with one writing on social media: “RIP pla. Miss you big tme. Never be forgotten. God look down on your family and daughter. Miss big time. Bad world we live in. May God give ya the best bed up there pal.”

Another pal wrote: “RIP pal. You’ll be sadly missed. We had some great times. Keep it lit up there 4 us. Til we meet again,” and another wrote: “Rest in peace John. Some good memories in me gaff many moons ago. Thoughts and prayers for all your family and friends.”