Son (21) remanded in custody on assault charge after dad dies

Gardai attend the scene in Portlaw where John Butler died

Ciaran Murphy

A man charged with assaulting his father, who subsequently died, has been remanded in custody.

Stephen Butler (21), of Ramsgrange, New Ross in Co Wexford, appeared before a special sitting of the district court in Carrick-on-Suir, Co Tipperary, yesterday.

He was charged with assault causing harm to John Butler (48) in Portlaw, Co Waterford, early on Saturday.

Quiet

Giving evidence of arrest, charge and caution, Garda Sharon Ryan, of Tramore Garda Station, said Mr Butler made no reply when cautioned.

The State indicated that it would oppose a bail application on the grounds that more serious charges may now be brought.

Solicitor Ken Cunningham said no bail application would be made and appealed for an adjournment to Thursday.

Judge Terrance Finn granted free legal aid and adjourned proceedings to a sitting of the court on Thursday.

Gardai were called to the scene of an assault in the Portlaw area of Waterford, in the early hours of Saturday. Emergency services also attended.

The State Pathologist's Office has concluded a post-mortem examination.

Although living in Portlaw for some years, Mr Butler was from Tracey Park in Carrick.

Fianna Fail TD Mary Butler, who is a Portlaw native, said: "I've lived here all my life and it's a small town with a fantastic community. The man involved was a quiet man, and you would always see him walking his two dogs.

"I spoke to one of his neighbours and he said he was a very, very good neighbour."

Local Sinn Fein councillor Declan Clune offered his "condolences to the family".

On WLRfm, local salon owner Bernie Brophy added: "I knew him well. He used to come and get his hair cut with me and he was a lovely gentleman."