Murder probe launched after disappearance of young boy in Louth

In a new statement, a Garda spokesperson said investigators now believe the eight-year-old is 'missing presumed dead'.

Kyran was reported missing from his home in Drogheda to An Garda Síochána on 30 August 2024.

He was last seen on Wednesday, 28 August at around 11pm.

"Despite extensive enquiries carried out by Gardaí to date, An Garda Síochána have been unable to either locate Kyran, identify any information on his current whereabouts or any evidence that he is currently alive," a Garda spokesperson said in a statement on Wednesday (16 October).

"Following enquiries to date, investigating Gardaí now believe that Kyran is missing presumed dead."

Kyran Durnin

A murder investigation is being led by a Senior Investigation Officer (SIO) based out of an incident room established at Drogheda Garda Station.

Tusla, the Child and Family Agency, is working closely with and fully co-operating with this Garda probe.

Gardaí are appealing to anyone who has any information in connection with the disappearance of Kyran to contact Drogheda Garda Station on 041 987 4200, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda Station.

"Any information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, will be welcomed by the investigation team. This information will be treated in the strictest confidence," the spokesperson added.

"No arrests have been made. The investigation is ongoing."

A Garda missing person’s appeal was previously issued for Kyran’s mother Dayla Durnin, aged 24, but was stood down on the morning of Wednesday, 16 October.