Fiosru sends Butler death file to DPP

Fiosru, the Office of the Police Ombudsman, has concluded its independent investigation into the death of Paul Butler, a 51-year-old man from Dublin, who died following an incident involving gardai on O'Connell Street on August 15, 2025. Butler reportedly hit his head on the ground after contact with gardai and died days later in hospital. Fiosru has forwarded its investigation file to the Republic of Ireland — Director of Public Prosecutions (Ireland) (DPP) and is awaiting direction from prosecutors. The investigation was opened following a mandatory referral from An Republic of Ireland — Garda Síochána under the Policing, Security and Community Safety Act 2024. A garda member was arrested, questioned, and suspended from duty in connection with the death. Fiosru has notified Butler's family and the garda of its decision and is precluded from further comment at this time.