New post mortem completed on body of Clare man exhumed 40 years after he was killed
Gardai investigating death of Patrick Nugent in 1984 say results will not be released for 'operational reasons'
The body of a Clare man who died in unexplained circumstances more than 40 years ago is to be re-interred following the completion of a new post-mortem examination, gardai have confirmed.
Patrick Nugent, 23, from Sixmilebridge in County Clare died in the early hours of February 11, 1984 after he was found lying on the ground in the carpark of 'The Barn'at Bunratty Folk Park.
He had been working as a banquet manager at a party in the previous evening and the alarm was raised at around 4am following the event.
Mr Nugent was given CPR at the scene and was brought by ambulance to hospital in Limerick, where he later died from his injuries.
While a man was arrested and charged in connection with his death, he was subsequently acquitted and cleared of any criminal charges.
However, the family of Mr Nugent believe he was killed and have been campaigning over the years to have the case re-opened.
Patrick Nugent's body was exhumed earlier this week as part of a 'fresh' garda investigation which was directed by Commissioner Drew Harris, in 2022, following a Cold Case review.
In an update, issued this Thursday, they said the post-mortem, carried out by Assistant State Pathologist Dr Heidi Okkers, has been completed and that arrangements for the re-internment of his remains will be made with his family and the coroner.
The results of the post-mortem, a garda spokesperson confirmed, are not being released for 'operational reasons'.
They added: "An Garda Síochána continue to appeal to any person with information in relation to the death of Patrick Nugent to contact the Incident Room at Shannon garda station on 061-365900, the Garda confidential number 1800 666 111 or any member of An Garda Síochána at any garda station.