Singer-songwriter Michael Maloney charged with murder of Donegal businessman Stephen McCahill

Singer-songwriter Michael Maloney has appeared in court in Co Donegal charged with the murder of businessman Stephen McCahill.

The married father-of-two (66) was found dead following an assault at his home outside the town early on Monday morning.

The accused (32), who lives in Loughross Point in Ard an Rátha, was a nephew of McCahill by marriage. He is also a popular musician, whose top track on Spotify has amassed over 10 million streams. In 2023, he also played the Limerick hurling homecoming event after the team’s all-Ireland’s victory.

Letterkenny District Court was informed that Maloney had been arrested and cautioned, before getting charged with the murder of McCahill.

Maloney made no reply to the charge.

Defense solicitor Mark Mullaney told the court that his client has a psychiatric illness and asked that his client be afforded all the necessary medical and psychiatric treatment.

Maloney remanded in custody to appear by video link to Letterkenny District Court next Monday, January 12.

A number of tributes have already been paid to the late Donegal businessman, including singer-songwriter Imelda May, who said she was "heartbroken" to hear of McCahill's death and had "only seen him on Saturday night".

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. 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.”