Minister Martin extends his condolences to the family of Andrew Hanlon

The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr. Micheál Martin TD, wishes to extend his sincere condolences to the family of Andrew Hanlon who died under tragic circumstances in Silverton, Oregon.

On 1st July the Consulate was informed by Andrew’s sister that Andrew had been shot by a police officer.  The Consul General in San Francisco immediately informed the local US authorities of the Government’s concern.  The District Attorney for the local county has launched an investigation into the killing which, he has informed us, will take several weeks to complete. 

The Consul General has emphasised the Government’s interest and deep concern about the case in her contacts with the District Attorney and the Chief of Police of Silverton.  The Minister has asked to be kept fully informed of developments.

The Department has maintained very close contact with Andrew’s family in Oregon and Ireland and has kept them fully informed of all relevant information as we became aware of it.  This close liaison will continue. However, the full circumstances of the shooting are unlikely to be known until the investigation by the US authorities is completed.

Acting on the Minister’s instructions, our Consul General in San Francisco is travelling to Oregon today to provide further assistance, on the ground, to Andrew’s sister, with whom we are in ongoing and close contact.   The Consulate will also continue to liaise closely with the US authorities to ensure that Andrew’s remains are repatriated as quickly as possible.

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Press
3/7/08