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Man Who Killed Dad In Laois Hotel To Remain In Central Mental Hospital

Thursday, 26 February 2026 15:55

Henry McGowan was found not guilty by reason of insanity for the murder of his father in Ballyfin Demesne.

A man who killed his father at a five-star hotel in Laois in 2024 will remain detained at the Central Mental Hospital for treatment.

Henry McGowan was found not guilty of murdering his father by reason of insanity earlier this month.

On the 12th of November 2024, 31-year-old Henry McGowan killed his father, John, at Ballyfin Demesne in Laois while experiencing a psychotic episode.

He was found not guilty of murder by reason of insanity nearly two weeks ago.

Today, Consultant Forensic Psychiatrist, Dr Mark Joynt told the Central Criminal Court it was his opinion Henry McGowan continues to suffer from a mental disorder and is in need of inpatient care and treatment at the Central Mental Hospital.

Dr Joynt added failure to detain him would lead to a serious deterioration of his condition.

Judge Paul McDermott said the case is a very difficult one which has been very traumatic for Mr McGowan’s family and can only be described as a terrible tragedy.

He directed Henry McGowan to be committed to the Central Mental Hospital for treatment, where his detention and care will be reviewed in six months.

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