Death of Patrick Nugent – Investigation - Bunratty, Co. Clare

The Gardaí at Shannon Garda station are investigating all the circumstances surrounding the death of Patrick Nugent. On Friday, February 10th 1984, a party was held in “The Barn” in Bunratty Folk Park, Co. Clare, to celebrate the 40th wedding anniversary of William & Chrissie Ryan. William Ryan was well- known in the area and held a prominent position as ‘Head Chef’ for Aer Rianta in Shannon Airport.

Patrick Nugent was the banquet manager for the event on the night and had responsibility for the party’s smooth running.

The Event:

Approximately (60) invited guests attended the party which was held in a building known as ‘The Barn’ on the grounds of Bunratty Folk Park. Some of the guests parked their cars in a courtyard located directly opposite to ‘The Barn’ while others utilised the public carpark located outside the Folk Park.

A buffet meal was served on the night and entertainment was provided by a local band. At approximately 3am on 11th February 1984 the band stopped playing and guests began to leave.

At approximately 4am, Patrick Nugent assisted William Ryan in bringing anniversary gifts out to William Ryan’s car which was parked in the courtyard outside ‘The Barn’.

A short time later, some guests were still in the function room of ‘The Barn’ and some members of staff who were in the kitchen area of ‘The Barn’ heard a noise outside.

A number of guests and staff members went the short distance from the Function Room and the kitchen to the courtyard area. They observed Patrick Nugent lying at the entrance door which leads to the courtyard. He had received injuries from which he later died.

Crimecall interviewed Patrick’s brothers John and Martin. Patrick was their eldest brother, someone who they looked up to. Patrick had a great work ethic - whether it was working at home on the family farm or at Bunratty. If Patrick was alive today, he would be approaching his 64th birthday and the Nugent Family have missed out on sharing many happy family occasions with him.

Investigation:

This is a fresh investigation into all the circumstances that lead to Patrick’s death.  As a result, an incident room has been established in Shannon Garda Station to investigate the matter. 

Investigating Gardaí are conscious that the original investigation was carried out almost 40 years ago.  The investigation team are now re-examining and reviewing all available material and are utilising modern day investigative techniques. It is hoped that with advances in technology the investigation can be progressed and bring closure to the Nugent family. The investigation team are currently interviewing witnesses who attended the party.

Garda Appeal: 

• Are you in a position to bring closure to Patrick’s family who deserve to know what happened to their loved one?
• Do you have any information in your possession that may assist with establishing the circumstances surrounding the death of Patrick? You may not have been able to unburden yourself until now – but with the passage of time, or a change in personal circumstances, you may have information which you were unable to share previously. We want to assure you we will treat you with compassion and sensitivity.
• The investigation is currently focused on all those who attended the party on the night as either a guest or a member of staff. Do you now recall something that previously you were unable to share with the investigation?
• Are you a family member or friend of anyone who attended the party? You may be able to assist the investigation? Do you have photographs which were taken on the night?
• If you possess any information, no matter how small or insignificant you feel it may be, please give the investigation team the opportunity of assessing what it is you have to say.
• Please contact the Incident Room - Shannon Garda Station on (061)-356000

       Garda confidential number - 1800 666111 or Crime call on 1800 40 50 60.