An Garda Síochána has formally reclassified the disappearance of Kerry farmer Michael Gaine as a homicide investigation, following two months of extensive but fruitless searches. Mr. Gaine, 53, was last seen on March 20, 2025, near his home in Kenmare, County Kerry. He was reported missing the following day.
In a statement issued April 30, gardaí confirmed:
“Based on the entirety of the information available to the investigation team at Killarney Garda Station, An Garda Síochána reclassified the missing person investigation as a homicide investigation.”
Public Plea from Family
Mr. Gaine’s wife, Janice Gaine, made an emotional appeal for information:
“This is totally out of character… We want anyone with information about Michael to please come forward and talk to the gardaí. We just want Michael to come home. We want to know what happened.”
She described her husband as a devoted farmer and a well-loved member of the community.
“He loved his animals, he loved rallying, he had lots of friends… This whole thing has been devastating.”
Michael’s sister, Noreen O’Regan, echoed her sister-in-law’s plea:
“Our lives are shattered – we want answers. Michael went to his farm like he always did. He never came back. We are heartbroken.”
Investigation Developments
The decision to upgrade the case has expanded Gardaí’s investigative powers, enabling them to issue warrants, access phone records, and question persons of interest more extensively. According to security sources cited by Extra.ie, the reclassification allows for “more heavy-duty” inquiries.
The last confirmed sighting of Mr. Gaine was when he purchased phone credit on March 20. His car was later found parked at his farm, but no trace of him has been discovered despite extensive searches involving drones, canine units, and aerial surveillance.
So far, investigators have:
- Conducted over 320 formal enquiries
- Taken nearly 130 witness statements
- Reviewed more than 2,200 hours of CCTV and dashcam footage
A Garda spokesperson reiterated their appeal:
“There are person or persons who know what happened on March 20. If you have any information—no matter how small—please contact us. All information will be treated in the strictest confidence.”
When last seen, Mr. Gaine was wearing an orange wool hat, a black fleece jacket, blue jeans, and black boots.
Call to Action
Authorities urge anyone with information to contact Killarney Garda Station or use the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111.
Garda Officers Road Work Picture on Wikimedia by William Murphy
