Gardaí release girl (17) held over Phoenix Park murder

A 17-year-old girl arrested in relation to the murder of Gerard Donnelly in Dublin's Phoenix Park last week has been released.

A Garda spokesman said he had no comment at this time when asked if a file was being prepared on the girl, who was held at Blanchardstown Garda station, for the Director of Public Prosecutions following her detention.

Mr Donnelly, who is believed to have been from Tallaght in Dublin, had been sleeping rough in the Phoenix Park. His remains were discovered last Friday when gardaí spotted a fire near the Wellington Monument.

Mr Donnelly, who was in his thirties, suffered a fractured skull and was found in a sleeping bag that had been set on fire.

Investigating officers had to rely on DNA testing to confirm the identity of the deceased due to the severity of injuries inflicted from the fire and assault beforehand.

Ciarán Moran, who has an address at Camden Hall, Camden Street, Dublin, was yesterday charged with Mr Donnelly's murder at Dublin District Court.

He was remanded in custody for one week to appear again at Cloverhill District Court next Tuesday.

A man (20) arrested in connection with the incident on Monday remains in Garda custody.