Ian Bailey submitted fresh DNA sample to gardaí before his death, sister reveals

He was the main suspect in the 1996 murder of Sophie Toscan du Plantier.

Bailey was the main suspect in the 1996 murder of Sophie Toscan du Plantier in West Cork.

He always denied any involvement in the murder, insisting he was the victim of a flawed investigation, and putting forward alternative theories about who may have been responsible.

Over the years, a number of locals claimed he made remarks that amounted to confessions, though he repeatedly denied this, saying the comments had been taken out of context.

In January 2024, Bailey died after suffering a suspected cardiac arrest in Bantry.

Now, his sister Kay Reynolds has revealed that he provided authorities with an updated genetic sample because he knew he was in danger of dying from heart disease.

The revelation comes as gardaí have conducted a worldwide DNA search to identify a tiny blood sample found on Du Plantier's boot in the hope that it is may help them find the murderer.

Reynolds has welcomed the DNA search, saying that if the blood sample did belong to her brother, she would have been told so by now.

She further added that she and her family never believed Bailey was involved in the killing.

“My understanding is Ian gave his DNA again because he knew there are huge developments in modern forensic technology and this might eventually lead to a breakthrough in the murder hunt. You don’t think you voluntarily give up your DNA to the Garda if you are guilty, do you?”

Bailey was never convicted of the crime in Ireland; however, a French court convicted him in absentia in 2019. He was never extradited to France, as the Irish courts refused requests for his surrender.