Son faces court over death of farmer dad

Niall O'Connor

A 33-year-old mechanic is due in court charged with shooting his elderly father at the family farm.

THOMAS Biggins (71) died from shotgun wounds after being shot with his own legally registered firearm on Sunday.

He was rushed to a nearby hospital but was pronounced dead a few hours later.

His son, John Biggins, was arrested at the scene and was charged last night.

He is expected to appear before Ballina District Court later today.

Illness

A steady stream of friends, family and neighbours were yesterday seen visiting the family home near Glencorrib, Co Mayo.

Mr Biggin's widow Kathleen and three other children were being consoled by loved ones.

His fifth child died in recent years following a long illness.

The victim's brother-in-law, Jackie Hyland, said the family was "devastated".

hnews@herald.ie