We need your help now
Support from readers like you keeps The Journal open.
You are visiting us because we have something you value. Independent, unbiased news that tells the truth. Advertising revenue goes some way to support our mission, but this year it has not been enough.
If you've seen value in our reporting, please contribute what you can, so we can continue to produce accurate and meaningful journalism. For everyone who needs it.
Sign in. It’s quick, free and it’s up to you.
An account is an optional way to support the work we do. Find out more.
By continuing, you are indicating that you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.
THE OFF DUTY Garda who was shot and seriously injured in New Orleans has thanked those who helped him during his tough ordeal.
Brian Hanrahan (30) was on holidays in the US city when he was shot several times after refusing to hand over cash in an attempted mugging in the early hours of 27 January.
Hanrahan is originally from Tipperary but is based in Newcastle West in Limerick. He was on holiday with his father, Brian Snr, when the incident happened.
Arrest
Two brothers, Melvin Galle Jnr and Keith Galle, have been arrested in relation to the shooting.
Releasing a statement this evening, he said he is now home and “beginning to recuperate with the help of my family and friends”.
I would like to thank all of the staff at LSU Hospital in New Orleans, they are an amazing team and I would not be here today without them.I would like to express my gratitude to the New Orleans Police Department, the Emerald Society and the people of New Orleans.Their kindness and generosity will never be forgotten both by me and my family.
I would also like to thank the Irish Community both home and abroad for the many kind messages of support.
Hanrahan also thanked his colleagues in An Garda Síochána and “the amazing community in Newcastle West for their support and well wishes”.
Obviously I have a long road ahead with pain management and rehabilitation but I am hopeful that these will be effective and I can get back to my normal life.
He said he and his family would be most grateful if their privacy could be respected at this time so that he can concentrate fully on his recovery.
To embed this post, copy the code below on your site
Failte abhaile Brian, hope you make a full and speedy recovery!
Firstly I am delighted that Mr Hanrahan is recovering from whay can only be classed as a horrific ordeal and I wish him a speedy recovery.
Why is the emphasis on “off duty garda” being bandied around so much.
If he was a doctor,nurse,fireman,mechanic,bus driver etc would that be as important.
He was a tourist on holidays.
Being a garda is a job,nothing more and nothing less.It doesn’t grant superpowers or make you more important than anybody else.
This is not in any way a garda bashing post and no offence is intended but Mr Hanrahan was a tourist and his profession does not warrant any more priorities above anyone else.
Again I sincerly wish Mr Hanrahan a speedy recovery back to full health .
Where did anyone suggest that his profession should grant any special privileges?
It’s quite simple. It gets people clicking. Look at every single view count for an article with Garda in the headline, thousands. Sensationalism at its finest.
Glad to hear Brian is on mend but I heard hospital bill runs to nearly $1m which is crazy & I hope he has a travel insurance. Anyone must not go aboard without a travel insurance or face the possibly financial ruin in a later life!!
He more than likely had insurance but they refused to pay out because he didn’t hand over the cash.
The Indo reports that his travel insurance is insufficient to cover the costs.
Simple solution, just don’t pay it! Who is going to come after him? Hospitals in the US have incidents like this happen all the time, and have a procedure to simply write off as a bad debt.
Get well soon Brian and great news that your at home with family, because when we think about life family is important.
He look s like a baby lol 30? I want his secret! Delighted he is ok wish you a speedy recovery.
The lesson here: don’t try to be a hero. Let’s not blur the message.
Grow a pair will ya!
I think you all are being a bit harsh with David.
Wishing you a speedy recovery to good health
Dumb culchie…..thought he was on patrol back home in Ballina sorting out drunks on a Saturday night
Dickson. ..or sucks some……I’d say d latter. ..
Look if you want a blowjob then why not just ask?
Bloody closet job.
All the best in your recovery, god bless
He was still thirsty and looking for more drink.
Not an easy I durance claim.
have your say