Family dealt double heartache as son, 32, dies after brother stabbed to death

A 32-year-old man has died after entering a river following a suspected slash attack, over a decade after his younger brother was fatally stabbed at a club event. Thomas Griffin, a boxer, died after sustaining serious injuries in a suspected attack at the War Memorial Gardens near Islandbridge, west Dublin, at approximately 10pm on Saturday (May 30), with Gardaí having since launched an investigation.

Thomas’ death comes after his younger brother, James, was fatally stabbed at the Celtic Gladiators Private Members Club on November 16, 2014. James, known as ‘Jay’, suffered multiple stab wounds to the neck, torso and arm before his killers fled the scene in a taxi. Thomas’ death is the family’s – who hail from Ballyfermot, a suburb in the west of Dublin – second heartbreaking tragedy in 12 years. It is thought that Thomas attempted to flee his attackers by plunging into the River Liffey. Emergency services rushed to the scene, but the 32-year-old was later pronounced dead in hospital.

According to the Irish Mirror, tributes have poured in for Thomas, who was deeply passionate about boxing and had trained at St Matthews Boxing Club in Ballyfermot.

Professional boxer Luke Keeler was amongst those paying their respects on social media, writing: “RIP to old friend Thomas Griffin, one of the very best fighters to come out of St. Matthews BC and Ballyfermot. Thoughts with his family.”

In a statement, local councillor Daithi Doolan said his family deserves answers: “I want to send my deepest sympathy to the family and friends of Thomas Griffin. His death was very tragic, made worse by the questions that surround his untimely death. I would appeal to anyone who saw or heard anything on Saturday night to please contact the Gardaí.

“It is hugely important that we find out what happened to Thomas. His family and friends deserve to know what happened to their loved one.”

Gardaí are currently awaiting the outcome of a post-mortem examination to determine the course of the investigation. In an official statement, officers called for witnesses to come forward: “Gardaí in Ballyfermot are investigating all the circumstances surrounding a number of incidents at the War Memorial Gardens in Islandbridge and on the Chapelizod Road in Dublin on the evening of Saturday 30th May 2026.

“Gardaí and emergency services attended following reports that a male had swam across the River Liffey to lands adjacent to Chapelizod Road, following an alleged incident of assault in the vicinity of the War Memorial Gardens at approximately 10.20pm.

“The male, aged in his 30s, was treated at the scene by personnel from the Dublin Fire Brigade before being removed by ambulance to St. James’ Hospital, where he subsequently passed away on Sunday 31st May 2026.

“A post-mortem examination will be carried out. The investigation is being carried out under a Senior Investigating Officer. Gardaí are appealing for any witnesses or anyone with information in relation to this incident to come forward.”

Anyone with camera footage, including dash-cam, who was travelling in the area between 9pm and 10.45pm on May 30 are urged to make this footage available to the Gardaí. Anyone with any information is asked to contact Clondalkin Garda Station on 01 666 7600, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.