Kenneth O’Brien: DNA results from Sallins discovery expected

Results from a DNA test on the most recently discovered remains of Kenneth O’Brien are expected today.

Gardaí would not comment on reports that parts of a power tool were found alongside the remains on Sunday evening in Sallins, Co Kildare.

They did confirm that they had discovered “potential evidential items that may be linked to the investigation of the murder of Kenneth O’Brien”.

Mr O'Brien's torso had previously been found in a suitcase in the Grand Canal at Ardclough, Co Kildare, on January 16th.

Four locations across two canals are being searched by gardaí investigating the murder: the Ninth Lock on the Grand Canal at Fonthill Road, Clondalkin, a site on the Royal Canal between Leixlip and Maynooth in Co Kildare as well as the two sites in Sallins and Ardclough where the remains were found.

Mr O’Brien, who had a partner and was a father, was last seen early on January 15th when he left his home on the Lealand Road in Clondalkin, saying he was going to work.

He was identified using DNA analysis after his killers decapitated him and cut off his arms, hands and feet.

At a press briefing in Leixlip Garda station on Monday, Chief Supt Barry McPolin said “the key” to the investigation would be the discovery of the site where Mr O’Brien was killed.

“This is essential to our investigation. I would say that some person knows where that scene is,” he said. “We’re asking them to bring that information forward, it’s of a considerable importance to our investigation.”

Investigators are understood to be examining CCTV footage from the Grand Canal Greenway, at the Ninth Lock. Mr O’Brien’s home is a few hundred metres from the lock.

Gardaí said they are anxious to hear from anyone who may have seen something out of the ordinary in the area at any time since January 15th.

The lock and an overhead bridge on the Fonthill Road are overseen by CCTV cameras mounted on a number of poles in the area.

Jordan Henevy, who walks his dogs along the Grand Canal Greenway every day, said it was a popular walking route for "all sorts of people".

Another walker, Mary O’Donoghue, said that while the cameras would “spot anyone on the canal”, they may not “pick up somebody throwing something from the bridge”.

Gardaí have also appealed to anyone who may have seen something unusual in the area of the Royal Canal opposite the entrance to Carton House since January 15th to come forward.