Tragic Turn of Events for the McGowan Family
Last year, a Brooklyn resident named Henry McGowan accomplished an impressive feat by running the New York City Marathon, raising over $10,000 for the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). In his fundraising efforts, he shared his personal journey, revealing that he experienced a manic episode in January 2022 and was subsequently diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder Type I. On his dedicated web page, he expressed gratitude, stating, “Many people who suffer from mental illnesses are not blessed with the level of support or access to care that I am fortunate to have.”
Among his most steadfast supporters during this challenging time was his father, John McGowan. However, in a tragic twist of fate, just a year later, John McGowan has passed away, and Henry has now been charged by authorities in Ireland with his father’s murder.
According to a news release from Irish officials, Henry McGowan is accused of having “murdered one John McGowan, contrary to common law,” on Tuesday night at Ballyfin Demesne, a luxurious hotel located in County Laois, approximately 60 miles southwest of Dublin. This upscale establishment, situated in a historic manor dating back to the 1820s, has been a favored destination for numerous celebrities, including the likes of Kim Kardashian and Kanye West, who famously honeymooned there, as reported by various British and Irish media outlets.
Shortly before 8 p.m. local time on that fateful Tuesday, police were summoned to the hotel after reports of a “fatal assault.” Upon their arrival, they discovered a deceased individual, later identified as John McGowan, aged 60. The incident has left the local community and the family in shock, raising questions about the circumstances surrounding this devastating event.