Gardaí have released new details from an investigation into the discovery of a man’s body in Cork, hoping that images of his personal items may help establish his identity.
The man’s body was recovered from the River Lee on 23rd July 1999.
Twenty-six years later, his identity remains unknown, and no relatives have ever been traced.
He was not carrying any form of personal identification at the time, and a DNA sample and cross referencing the description against missing persons all resulted in no findings.
At the time, Gardaí believed he may have lived a transient lifestyle and the post mortem concluded that he had died from drowning.
The case was broadcast on RTE’s Crimecall this week, and Gardaí are appealing to the public to take a good look at the property that was found with the deceased.
The MacGinty horseshoe medal is a very distinctive piece.
With the name being popular in Donegal and the north of Ireland, it’s hoped that this appeal may reach someone who can identify the man and help bring closure to a family.
The man stood at 5’10” with a strong build, a short neck, dark hair and short grey facial hair.
Gardaí also noted the unusual manner in which the deceased was dressed. He had on several layers of clothing. These included navy trousers, green striped trousers and blue jeans along with two pairs of socks. On his upper body he had a red and white striped shirt, a green short sleeved jumper and another beige jumper with the sleeves cut off. He wore brown boots lined with paper labelled ‘Reality April 99’.
Gardaí are appealing to the public to take a good look at the property that was found with the deceased, do you recognize it?
His personal belongings included a Philip Mercier silver watch with a gold face. Wooden rosary beads, Holy water, a Claddagh ring and three religious medals were also found on his person.
If you have any information please contact the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda Station or Crime Call on 1800 40 50 60
MacGinty link may hold key to 26-year mystery was last modified: February 25th, 2026 by Staff Writer
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