Imelda May pays tribute to late Donegal businessman Stephen McCahill

Singer-songwriter Imelda May is among those who have paid tribute to Donegal publican Stephan McCahill, who was found dead at his home in Ardara yesterday morning.

Gardaí have confirmed the 65-year-old businessman died at the scene after being assaulted. A man in his 30s, who is known to McCahill, has since been arrested and is currently being questioned by gardaí.

McCahill, a former Donegal Person of the Year recipient, was highly regarded in the business world. McCahill co-owned the Corner House bar in Ardara and was also an auctioneer.

In a post on her Instagram, May said she was "heartbroken" to hear of McCahill's death and had "only seen him on Saturday night".

"Heartbroken at the tragic loss of loveliest Stephen," May wrote. "Who I had the privilege of seeing again at his pub just sat night.

"My huge sympathies to family, friends, and whole community."

Other tributes include Donegal County Councillor and former All-Ireland champion Anthony Molloy.

“Our community has lost its driving force for development and advancement," said Molloy.

"Stephen devoted his entire life to improving the Ardara area and the southwest of Donegal in general."

“Time and time again, I would call on Stephen to assist me in speech writing or public events, and true to form, he would never let you down – he was always there," Molloy continued.

“There are no words I can express that cover the void left by Stephen McCahill’s passing, it is the saddest of all days for our close-knit community and surrounding areas.

"Rest easy, my friend – you were the most loyal and true of all."

Councillor Molloy urged everyone in the Ardara community to help one another during this time by reaching out, communicating, and offering support.

A post-mortem is expected to be carried out on the body of the McCahill today.