The 2020 murder of 17-year-old Keane Mulready-Woods remains one of the most disturbing crimes Ireland has ever faced. Keane, who had become involved with a Drogheda drug gang, was lured to a house on January 12. What followed was a level of violence that stunned the country. His body was dismembered, and parts were later left in different locations across Dublin and Moatview.

Keane’s death was tied to a long-running gang feud in Drogheda. The killing set off more violence, including the later shooting of Robbie Lawlor, the main suspect in the case. Lawlor was a well-known figure in organised crime and carried a long criminal history. Gardaí believe he targeted Keane because he thought the teenager was linked to the 2019 murder of his brother-in-law, Richie Carberry.

Shortly before he disappeared, Keane called his mother to say he would be home late and asked her to leave money out for a taxi. He had been following a strict curfew and was trying to keep a low profile. Despite past trouble, including a conviction connected to drug debts, he had been doing his best to avoid conflict.

Investigators later learned that Keane may have been present during an incident in which Lawlor was assaulted outside a gym. This event, combined with the ongoing feud, may have increased the danger he faced.

In the years that followed, several men were sentenced for helping those involved. Paul Crosby received ten years for facilitating the murder, while Gerard “Rocky” Cruise was given seven. Another man admitted removing evidence.

Keane’s mother, Elizabeth, described the loss of her son as a pain that will never fade. In a statement to the court, she said part of her died with him, and the memories of his final calls still echo in her mind.