Authorities in Dublin’s Fingal County have launched a criminal investigation following the brutal beheading of a cherished eight-year-old stag at Newbridge Demesne public park. The headless carcass of the Irish Red Deer was discovered by park staff on Thursday morning during routine feeding of the protected herd.
According to official statements from Fingal County Council, intruders illegally entered the Donabate park overnight Wednesday and deliberately removed the stag’s head, presumably as a hunting trophy. The council has characterized the act as ‘callous’ and is collaborating with both gardaí (Irish police) and the National Parks and Wildlife Service in their investigation of this wildlife crime.
The slain stag, known for his impressive antlers and gentle demeanor, was one of only two stags in the herd and had become a beloved attraction for park visitors. Ivan Smith, foreman at Newbridge House and Traditional Farm, emotionally described the animal as ‘a lovely stag with a beautiful pair of antlers’ that was ‘a big favourite with the public.’
Fingal Mayor Tom O’Leary expressed profound shock at the incident, recalling personal visits with his granddaughters to see the ‘wonderful animal.’ He emphasized that deer killing without proper licensing is illegal under Irish law and urged anyone with information to contact authorities immediately. The investigation continues as officials work to identify and prosecute those responsible for this violation of protected wildlife.