The family of millionaire financier John McGowan who was allegedly killed by his son Henry at Ballyfin Demesne hotel in Laois said he ‘desperately’ tried to help him as he ‘suffers with a severe mental illness’. Repatriation arrangements are being made to bring the remains of McGowan back to the US following Tuesday evening’s fatal assault. Mr McGowan’s 30-year-old son is charged with murder and is currently being held in Cloverhill prison.
The 66-year-old financier died when his son allegedly assaulted him in the pool area of the five-star luxury hotel. Staff alerted authorities at around 8pm when the Connecticut native was found unresponsive in the resort which is popular with global celebrities. Gardai confirmed Mr McGowan died following a ‘fatal assault’.
Portlaoise District court was told by the accused man’s solicitor Barry Fitzgerald that Mr McGowan suffers from significant mental health difficulties. Presiding judge Andrew Cody allowed Mr McGowan Jnr to receive immediate medical assistance relating to his mental health. In a statement to The New York Times, the McGowan family said they were ‘deeply saddened by the death of John McGowan.
He did everything within his power to bring his son Henry, who suffers from a severe mental illness, the help he so desperately needs.’ The family added in the statement that they request privacy at this ‘difficult time’ and will not be commenting further. Mr McGowan Snr’s funeral arrangements are yet to be .