Fundraiser & balloon release for young man killed when deliberately run down
A fundraiser has been set up by pals of a young man who died after being deliberately run down by a car in what is believed to be part of a vicious gangland feud - with a balloon release taking place later today to remember him.
Kevin Kelly, 20, was killed instantly after he was struck by the vehicle on Balbutcher Lane in Ballymun, North Dublin in the early hours of Saturday morning.
It is understood there is an ongoing feud in the area between two gangs which are made up of mostly young men in their early twenties.
Gardaí and emergency services arrived on Balbutcher Lane around 5am and Mr Kelly was pronounced dead at the scene.
Kevin Kelly was well known in the area and is believed to have been aligned with one group which was feuding with another gang.
Now, pals have set up a GoFundMe page, entitled 'Kevin Kelly' with the wording: 'we are fundraising for our friend Kevin Kelly. Anything yous can donate is much appreciated.'
So far on Sunday afternoon, 29 donors donated a total of €790.
Later today, Sunday, June 29, a balloon release will take place at Hollytree Square in Ballymun at 6pm.
A family member wrote on social media: 'Balloons will be let off for my baby brother Kevin Kelly today at 6pm at Hollytree Square. Blue balloons. We hope you all can make it to remember Kevin.'
Earlier, local Fianna Fail Councillor Keith Connolly described the incident as a tragedy and added that the deceased man's home had been attacked during the week.
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He told Irish Mirror: 'As far as I know this wasn't an accident…his house was targeted during the week.
'There is complete shock in the area and anyone who has any information should contact An Garda Siochana.
'My sincere condolences to his family and friends, this was a terrible thing to happen.
'We have a meeting on Monday with the Guards and I'm sure they will have an update then.'
It is understood that the feud involves one gang based around the Poppintree area of Ballymun and another in Shangan.
Garda continue to appeal for witnesses to come forward.
In particular, they are looking to speak with people who were in the Balbutcher Lane and Balcurris Park areas, between 4am and 5am, including those with camera or dash-cam footage.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Ballymun Garda Station at 01 6664400, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda station.
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