Community in deep shock after stabbing
FAMILY AND FRIENDS KEEPING VIGIL AT SCENE
The scene of the fatal stabbing at St Cronan's, Swords.
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Wednesday July 28 2010
FRIENDS and relatives of the young Swords father-to-be fatally stabbed last week are maintaining a vigil at the scene when the incident occurred.
The death of 20-year-old James Joyce, whose girlfriend is expecting their first baby, has plunged the close-knit community into a deep sense of shock.
The young man was pronounced dead at Beaumont Hospital after sustaining stab wounds last Thursday evening near his home at St Cronan's estate in Swords.
It is expected that the funeral of the young man, the son of Patrick and Rose Joyce, will take place later in the week, possibly on Thursday.
His distraught girlfriend Alison Colgan is due to give birth in three months time.
He was a keen Liverpool supporter and also loved watching wrestling.
Residents are still trying to come to terms with the incident, which has rocked the neighbourhood.
One woman told the Fingal Independent that 'everyone is just in complete shock'. 'It is unbelievable. It's something that should never have happened. Everyone is in shock.'
'He was a very nice chap and was respected by everyone. The family and his girlfriend are in complete shock.'
She said that friends of the young man were maintaining a vigil at the scene.
Neighbours were familiar with the deceased and many of them noted his warm personality and willingness to help.
'I know his parents and I'd know him to see from going up and down the road,' one St Cronan's Avenue resident said.
'It's unreal when it goes to that stage. You read about it and your hear about in other parts, but when it happens in your own area. He was only starting life.'
Another told the Fingal Independent how he had heard a dispute near his home on the night in question and had called gardaí.
'I heard a noise outside and saw a gang of lads and I called the police,' the neighbour recalled. 'It's very sad - he was a very nice lad.
'He'd always ask you if you wanted anything when he was going up to the shop. I'm here 18 years, he was only small when I moved in. They're a nice family.'
Local TD Michael Kennedy also expressed his deepest sympathies to the family and friends of this young man and personally called to the family.
'They are understandably deeply traumatised but greatly appreciate the support that has been shown to them in the community,' said Deputy Kennedy.
