Ennis Sergeant's 'heart broke' after learning that Clare native and children were murdered

Sergeant Catriona Holohan of Ennis Garda Station said her "heart broke" after learning that Bareflied native Vanessa Whyte and her children, James and Sara Rutledge, had been murdered in Fermanagh. 

Clare was sent into mourning last Wednesday, July 23, when news broke that three people had been killed following a shooting in Maguiresbridge. It was confirmed some time later that the victims were a Clare mother and her two teenage children. 

45-year-old Vanessa Whyte worked as a vet and has been continuously described as a "devoted" mother. Teenagers James (14) and Sara Rutledge (13) were well-known in the community for their love of sports with locals saying they were "good natured" children. 

A fourth person of the same household, a man, was hospitalised shortly after the incident and has since died. It is understood he was the only suspect in the shooting. 

In a statement, Sergeant Holohan offered her condolences to the family, friends and neighbours of the three victims. 

She said, "As you know, I have worked with the Clare Local Area Network Opposing Violence Against Women for the last 14 years and so when I heard this news last Wednesday, my heart broke, not just for Vanessa, James and Sara but also for the extended victims, her family, her friends and her neighbours in both communities.

"On Thursday, when I was off-duty, I met a family neighbour of theirs, by chance and he spoke about her and how he could not understand it, he was heartbroken for his neighbours. During this time, everyone looks for answers but for now, the Whyte family need our support and they need their privacy."

The Ennis Sergeant reiterated that it is important that the family's privacy be respected. Ms Holohan also said she is aware that this sad incident may very well resonate with some.

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"If it does (resonate), please do not feel that you have to travel this road alone. Please reach out to Clarehaven Services who provide a 24 hour helpline on 065 6822435 or to An Garda Síochána for support and advice. Please remember that you can reach out for support too if you are a family member, a friend or a neighbour. A list of County Clare’s supports can be found on www.clarelan.ie 

"Ar dheis Dé go raibh a n-anamacha," Sergeant Holohan concluded. 

A murder investigation was launched last week and on Monday evening (July 28), the PSNI confirmed that 43-year-old Ian Rutledge died in hospital. It is understood that the agricultural contractor is the only suspect in the shooting.

Vanessa, James and Sara will be buried together in her home town.

A service of removal will take place in St Mary’s Church in Maguiresbridge on Wednesday morning, July 30. 

The Funeral Mass will be held in Barefield on Saturday before burial in Templemaley Cemetery.

Those attending the funeral have been asked to wear bright colours and make donations to Women’s Aid.