Police probe potential ‘online dating app’ link to violent Sligo murders

Gardaí investigating two separate murders in Sligo on the west coast of Ireland are investigating a potential homophobic motive and have issued safety advice to people using online dating apps.

Aidan Moffitt, 42, and 58-year-old Michael Snee were both found dead in their own homes this week having suffered extensive injuries.

Detectives believe the victims may have met their killer online.

A man in his 20s remains in custody after being arrested on suspicion of murder following the discovery of Mr Snee’s body in his Connaughton Road apartment at about 10.30pm on Tuesday.

The suspect was detained in Sligo town at about 1.45am on Wednesday.

Mr Moffitt’s body had been found in his house at Cartron Heights at about 8.30pm on Monday.

Gardaí are also investigating a third recent incident in the Sligo area as part of the murder investigations.

Garda Chief Superintendent Aidan Glacken has already said gardaí are keeping an “open mind” about the motivation for the killings.

“We are actively investigating as to whether there is any hate-related motive to these murders,” he told the press on Wednesday.

Taoiseach Micheál Martin and other Irish Government ministers have condemned the murders and LGBT Ireland, a support service for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people, has expressed shock and concern.

Vigils for the two victims have been planned in Sligo, Dublin and several other cities across Ireland on Friday evening.

Sligo Pride has also voiced shock and devastation at the murders.

“Our condolences go out to the friends and families of the victims,” the group said in a statement.

“We want them to know that we as a community are here for them, and we will not stand for this. Hate-based violence has no place in today’s society.

“While we stress the importance of personal safety, we feel it is critical to emphasise that the problem lies with the perpetrators, not the victims.

“We have seen a disturbing increase in hate-based violence and harassment in Sligo in recent years. A hate crime is not just an isolated act of violence, it is a signpost to a whole community that says ‘you are not welcome’.

“We are in the process of organising a vigil for the recent victims tomorrow at 6pm outside the Town Hall. We hope this will provide an opportunity for people to grieve and mourn the loss of Aidan and Michael.”