Two people arrested over fatal assault of homeless woman at Cork soup kitchen
Vanessa O'Callaghan, 36, suffered serious injuries after she was assaulted at an on-the-street soup kitchen near the Savoy cinema on Patrick Street in Cork city on December 1, 2024.
Ms O'Callaghan was availing of the services of the 'Kindness Krew' soup kitchen and had been given some food and a sleeping bag by a member of the volunteer group when she was attacked.
The mother-of-three sustained head injuries and was rushed to Cork University Hospital for treatment. Tragically, Vanessa passed away as a result of her injuries three days after the attack.
Two people were arrested by Gardaí on Wednesday in connection with their investigation into the fatal assault. The man and woman, both in their 30s, have since been released without charge. Flowers and candles left at site where Vanessa O'Callaghan was assaulted (Image: Paul Byrne/96FM)
A file will now be prepared by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) and Gardaí say investigations into the matter are ongoing.
A requiem mass for Ms O'Callaghan took place on December 10, 2024 at St Peter and Paul's Church in Cork.
Floral tributes with the words sister, mam and aunt were placed at the altar. Bishop Emeritus John Buckley recited the opening prayer whilst the children of the deceased placed the shroud over her coffin.
Ms O'Callaghan's only daughter Chelsea told all those who gathered in the packed church that her mother was one of those rare people who seemed to radiate joy during her journey of life.
'She was so full of life and she had a smile for everyone who crossed her path. Whether it was North Main Street, Patrick Street, the Grand Parade, wherever you would see her she was always have a smile.
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'That smile of hers had a way of lighting up a room and lifting our spirits no matter what kind of a day you were having. My mam had a special way of being everywhere. You couldn't miss her, even if you wanted to. And believe me we tried. Her presence is something I'll carry forever, not just in town but in my heart and everything I want to do.
"I am still in complete shock. I can't believe she's gone. It's going to take me a long time to get used to not seeing her around, especially by the church. Since her passing I've been expecting to see her there, full of life, and ready with her warm smile.
"But the reality of her absence, it hits me over and over again. The pain I am feeling right now is unlike anything I've ever experienced. I find it hard to find the right words to describe it.'
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