Major update issued after well-known Donegal man murdered at home

Hundreds of tributes have poured in.

Emergency services were called following reports of an assault at 03.50am on Monday before finding Mr McCahill who was pronounced dead at the scene.

A man in his 30s was arrested at a separate location and is currently being held at a Garda station in Donegal.

Gardai have now confirmed that he has since been charged and is due to appear before a special sitting of Letterkenny District Court this afternoon.

McCahill, who was named Donegal ‘Person of the Year’ in 2016 is said to have ‘lived a life defined by an unconquering community spirit’.

Local TD, Pat “The Cope” Gallagher, said that McCahill was a ‘lifelong friend’.

Gallagher said he knew him through “his work, through his involvement in the community and voluntary efforts across southwest Donegal, and through sport but above all through our friendship”.

He added: “Stephen had a tremendous flair and drive for community development, and his efforts were widely known and appreciated in Ardara and far beyond.”

Legendary Irish singer, Imelda May, also paid tribute to McCahill, writing: “Heartbroken to hear of the tragic and sudden death of the very special Stephen McCahill owner of the wonderful @cornerhousebar_ardara and the glue to a whole community of Ardara.

“He was a great friend to my brother Brendan and sister-in-law Josephine as he was to so many. I was happy to see him again just Sat night (when we took this picture at the door) where he encouraged live music and joy and had his big smile and hugs ready as the night went along. Even offering people a lift home.

“I’m putting this post up not just as a thank you to him but so people can send messages so his family can see all the love being sent their way at this awful time. Much love to his family, friends, all of Ardara and wider Donegal community and all who’ll miss him. Imelda XXX.”