Manslaughter Conviction: Repeat Offender Fatally Assaults Former Soccer Star in Limerick City, Ireland

A Limerick man has been sentenced to jail for killing former junior soccer star, Alan Bourke, in a tragic incident over a bag of beer cans. Michael Casey, who had previously been convicted for breaking into an elderly man’s home, pleaded guilty to Bourke’s manslaughter. The court heard that Casey and others accosted Bourke after one of them allegedly took his bag of cans and refused to return it. Casey fatally assaulted Bourke, causing him to fall and hit his head on the pavement. Despite efforts by paramedics, Bourke was pronounced dead at the hospital. The court heard that Bourke, who had excelled in soccer and rugby, had fallen on hard times due to struggles with alcohol. Casey, who admitted to hitting Bourke, expressed remorse and apologized to his family. Bourke’s sister described him as a loving son, father, and friend, emphasizing how their lives had been forever changed. In sentencing Casey, the judge noted that Bourke was vulnerable and homeless at the time of his death. Casey had previously been convicted for burglary, and the judge highlighted that he should have been aware of the serious consequences of his actions. The tragic incident has left a lasting impact on Bourke’s sister, who said she now fears walking on Parnell Street.