Two arrested in connection with the fatal assault of Cork woman Vanessa O'Callaghan

Gardaí are continuing to investigate the fatal assault of Cork woman, Vanessa O’Callaghan, following the arrest of two people yesterday.

Ms O’Callaghan, who was 36-years-old, died three days after sustaining injuries in an incident which occurred on Patrick Street in Cork city on Sunday, December 1, 2024.

Following ongoing investigations, a man and a woman, both aged in their 30s, were arrested on Wednesday in connection with the case.

The individuals were detained under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act, 1984 at a Garda station in Cork.

A spokesperson for An Garda Síochána said that the individuals have since been released without charge, and that a file is now being prepared for the office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.

Speaking to The Echo at the time of Ms O’Callaghan’s death, Caitríona Twomey of Cork Penny Dinners said that she was a frequent user of the service, and someone who everyone in the charity loved.

“To say we’re heartbroken would be a cliche, it goes beyond that, we really are feeling it very deeply,” said Ms Twomey.

“She meant a lot to us, she was very special — as soon as you saw her, you knew she would brighten up your day.

“We will definitely miss her, and our hearts go out to her family. We’ll be praying for them.” 

Investigations into the fatal assault are ongoing.