GARDAI are probing if the man killed in a machete attack was targeted by associates of mob boss John Gilligan, the Irish Sun can reveal.
Joseph McEvoy, 34, whose young pal was previously beaten in an assault, was found at a property in the Shancastle area of Lucan at 5.50am this morning.
It’s understood he suffered numerous stab wounds after he was attacked by a thug armed with a machete. He was later pronounced dead in hospital.
We can also reveal a suspect was arrested after the car he was driving in was stopped by officers from the Armed Support Unit.
The car was identified after a description of the vehicle was obtained by Gardai.
A number of items were seized from the car and are now being examined.
We understand Gardai are still hunting for the murder weapon.
Detectives also suspect the vehicle may have been stolen in south Dublin in the hours before the killing.
And Gardai are investigating if a number of cars set on fire in a nearby street after the murder are linked to the incident.
The scene of the attack was sealed off and is being examined for clues by the Garda National Technical Bureau.
A source said: “Gilligan’s young associates have attacked friends of Joseph McEvoy in the past over a feud.
“McEvoy’s friends have been involved in a feud with another gang and this is all about drugs.
TRIBUTES
“McEvoy wasn’t involved in this feud but has ended up losing his life.”
Tributes were also paid to the murder victim from his local football team, Quarryvale FC.
They said: “We are devastated to hear of the loss of our club captain Joey.
“The nicest man you’d ever meet and an absolute warrior on the pitch.
‘LIFE OF EVERY PARTY’
“Big Joe Mac was the life of every party and nothing will feel the same with him gone.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this horrible time. Rest in peace joe.”
A local resident also told of their shock at the killing, adding: “It’s hard to believe that someone has lost their life in such a violent manner.
“Joe was well known in this area and didn’t deserve to die like this.”
ONGOING FEUD
The feud – largely based in the Clondalkin and Ronanstown areas of the capital – has been ongoing for the last two years.
During that time, Gardai have investigated pipe bombings, serious assaults and shots fired at homes.
Gardai are also appealing to anyone with camera footage and dashcam footage in the area between 5am and 6am to come forward.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Lucan Garda station on 01 6667300 or the Garda Confidential Line on 1800666111.
