Local man gave refuge to terrified shoppers following Fairgreen shooting

A FATHER of three who was in his front garden in Carlow town with his children when shooter Evan Fitzgerald entered Fairgreen Shopping Centre gave refuge to dozens of terrified shoppers running from the complex as “mayhem” broke out.

Pa Cahill (48), who lives in the adjoining New Oak Estate, was painting chairs for his mother in his front garden while his children aged nine to four were playing alongside him. Mr Cahill outlined what he saw and did to help on Sunday evening.

“I was in the front garden painting chairs for my mother and my children – two girls and a boy were out playing, too – when I heard loud bangs and pops. I was wondering why would people be using fireworks at this time of year, as that couldn’t be right.

“Next thing I saw when I began looking around were dozens of people running down our road from the shopping centre. They were screaming, shouting and absolutely terrified. Some were even gasping for breath. Many were from the Asian community and all ages.” 

Mr Cahill rushed his children inside his house and went back out and also ushered them into his sitting room.

“It was mostly women who were running and they were really, really shocked and visibly shaking. They asked me could they come in and, of course, I let as many as I could into the house.

“I didn’t have time to think about what was unfolding as I wanted to make sure my own children were alright and those who were looking for help.

“It happened in the blink of an eye, being honest. I would never turn anyone away who needed help, let alone something like this. It’s not the Irish thing to do.

“I then went up the road and looked over the wall at the centre and I could see gardaí everywhere dealing with what was happening.” 

He went back to the house and tried to reassure the people there that everything was under control. About 30 minutes later, it was evident that it was safe around the centre and the area so the group of people felt it was okay to leave.

Mr Cahill said that the community in the housing estate was very close-knit but that people are still “wary and unsure” of themselves after the incident.

“My children are still asking questions about what occurred. My youngest is asking if ‘the shooting will happen again’ so it’s important to explain as much as you think they are able to cope with and understand,” added Mr Cahill.

He said: “You never think something like this would happen in Ireland, let alone Carlow. You hear about such incidents in the US, but not here. People here in the town and county are truly devastated over what has happened.” 

Mr Cahill also praised Tesco and the shopping centre staff for their brave efforts in helping people affected.

John Brophy, manager of the shopping centre, thanked members of the public for their “understanding and patience”.

In a statement, Mr Brophy said: ‘To all managers, staff, customers, our own security team and the frontline services – gardaí, fire and ambulance services – we offer sincere thanks and appreciation.’