The man found dead on a road outside Bandon has been identified locally as Gus Dempsey, a retired farmer who lost his home in a fire earlier this year.
Mr. Dempsey, who was from Ballinadee, near Bandon, was in his 70s. He became homeless in May after a fire completely destroyed his house and possessions.
Around 6:30 am on Saturday morning, another road user discovered a bicycle in the middle of the road and Mr. Dempsey’s body at the side of the road in the Kildarra area of Bandon. Emergency services were immediately notified.
Gardaí are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding his death and are exploring all possible avenues. They are also urging anyone who may have witnessed anything to come forward.
Alan Coleman, an Independent councillor for Bandon, described the death of Mr. Dempsey as a profound loss for the community.
“He was a very eloquent and pleasant man, well-liked by everyone in the area,” Mr. Coleman stated.
“He was also remarkably philosophical, maintaining a positive attitude despite the difficult situation he was in.”
“It’s truly a tragedy. To lose someone like that within our community is incredibly sad.”
“He was often seen cycling around the roads. He loved cycling and engaging in conversation.”
Mr. Coleman had been assisting Mr. Dempsey since he lost his home and was actively working to secure a modular home for him so that he could remain in the community.
“The housing crisis is impacting every community now,” Mr. Coleman emphasized.
A bachelor, Mr. Dempsey spent his youth growing up on a farm in Innishannon and subsequently worked as a farmer himself.
His challenging situation was recently brought to the attention of the Dáil by Independent Ireland TD Michael Collins.
“There is a severe lack of social housing in West Cork. Only a couple of units have become available in the last ten weeks,” Mr. Collins informed the Dáil.
“Gus is currently homeless. His house was destroyed by a fire, and while a kind neighbor initially offered him temporary accommodation, their family is returning home, forcing him to leave.”
“He is now without a home, unsure if he will be forced to sleep on the street. This man is in a dire situation, facing the possibility of being placed in a nursing home when he doesn’t require that level of care.”
“This exemplifies the crisis we are facing in this country.”
Mr. Collins asserted that the State has “completely neglected its responsibility” in supporting older citizens.
Gardaí in Bandon are continuing their investigation into the circumstances surrounding Mr. Dempsey’s death.
“The Coroner has been informed, and the deceased has been taken to the mortuary at Cork University Hospital. A post-mortem examination will be conducted, and the results will determine the direction of the Garda investigation,” a garda statement confirmed.
Gardaí are seeking witnesses, particularly anyone who may have spotted a man cycling in the Kildarra area during the early hours of Saturday, 19 July 2025.
They are also requesting that road users who may have camera footage – including dash-cam footage – from the area at that time make it available to the authorities.
Anyone possessing relevant information is urged to contact Bandon Garda Station at 023 885 2200, the Garda Confidential Line at 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.
