FATAL ATTACK

‘Shocked and devastated’ sister of man who died in ‘one-punch’ attack says brother did not have row with killer

• Published: 17:31, 6 Aug 2023
• Updated: 17:31, 6 Aug 2023

THE sister of a one punch attack victim has said that he didn’t have a row with the man who killed him.

Martin Lynn, 30 was getting out of a taxi in Dublin’s Whitehall in the early hours of Sunday, July 30.

He was punched once by someone, believed to be a motorcyclist, causing him to fall and hit his head.

It has been alleged that this was due to the person not liking that the taxi door opened as they were passing.

Martin was rushed to hospital but passed away, while his attacker fled the scene.

His older sister Sharon has since written a lengthy social media post at the weekend about “false” and “misleading” information circulating about her brother’s death.

And she said she wanted to clear his name to show that “Martin was not at fault”.

She said: “Martin was not involved in any ‘row’ or ‘argument’ or ‘altercation’ with the attacker.

“In fact he did not engage with the attacker whatsoever and was simply trying to get to his own front door.”

In the Facebook post, Sharon added: “On the early hours of Sunday morning at around 4.30am, my kind, funny and gentle young brother Martin was violently and unnecessarily attacked by a motorist passing through Larkhill road in Whitehall, just seconds away from the front door of our family home.

“A home where we had so many happy memories in a nice quiet community. A home that Martin lived in and felt safe in for 33 years.

“I cannot put into words the shock and devastation we feel.

“Martin was a mild mannered, funny, polite and positive young man and was never involved in any trouble or violence.

“Small in stature but big in heart; Martin didn’t stand a chance at the sudden and violent outburst from the attacker.

“Our lives have been shattered from the choice that this man made that night and I will not rest until justice has been served.”

She also praised people who have been helping the Lynn family since his death last weekend and urged anyone to come forward with any video footage that could help Gardai get justice for him.

Sharon added: “The words of support and love for Martin and our family these past few days have truly touched our hearts and are greatly appreciated.

“But please, if you want to help us to get justice for Martin, can you check any doorbell, dash cam or CCTV footage you may have from Sunday 30 July between 1am and 6am if you live in Whitehall or any of the surrounding areas.

“Call the Garda confidential line on 1800 666 111 or Santry station with any information, no matter how small it may seem.”

Sharon also asked for people to leave the family alone.

She concluded: “I have seen comments online from people speculating about what happened that night and it is not only upsetting for our family but it could damage the investigation.

“Please do not approach my grieving family for further details and thank you again for your kindness.”