Appeal for information on homeless man stabbed to death

Michal Kurek (33) was found dead in north county Dublin last month

Michal Kurek, a Polish murder victim whose body was found last month in north Dublin. Photograph: An Garda Síochána
Michal Kurek, a Polish murder victim whose body was found last month in north Dublin. Photograph: An Garda Síochána

Gardai have renewed an appeal for information in relation to a homeless man who died from multiple stab wounds last month.

Michal Kurek (33), originally from Dziewin in Poland, was found in a laneway off the Oldtown Road, the R129, about 1km oustide Ballboughal in north county Dublin on August 4th at about 10.40am.

He had resided in Ireland since 2010 but recently became homeless, frequenting the Ongar area in Dublin 15.

Detective Inspector Eddie Carroll of Balbriggan Garda station said: “In August Michal was murdered and we are appealing for anyone with information or anyone who saw Michal between Thursday 3rd or Friday 4th August, 2017 to come forward.

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“Based on Michal’s last known movements, we are particularly keen to hear from people residing in the areas of Ongar, Clonsilla, Coolmine, Hartstown and Huntstown. We are appealing to members of the Polish community.”

Gardai said Crimestoppers posters have been designed in Polish to assist any witnesses.

“I genuinely believe that members of the public have information in relation to the murder and I am asking these individuals to come forward,” Detective Inspector Carroll added.

Detectives believe Mr Kurek was murdered elsewhere and his body was left by a ditch on the country road. He had been stabbed dozens of times and gardai suspect his body was dumped in panic.

Gardai have made a number of public appeals since the murder came to light and have again urged anyone with information to come forward.

Gardai said previously a family liaison officer had been appointed to assist Mr Kurek’s family back in Poland and keep them updated about the murder probe.

Information can be given to investigating gardai at Balbriggan Garda station on (01) 6664500 or any Garda station. If a member of the public prefers to give the information without identifying themselves, they can call Crimestoppers on 1800 250025.

Sarah Burns

Sarah Burns

Sarah Burns is a reporter for The Irish Times