Investigation into alleged attack on Canadian tourist in Dublin may be upgraded

The investigation into an alleged assault on a Canadian tourist in Dublin city centre may be upgraded following his death in hospital yesterday.

Neno Dolmajian, 41, from Montreal, sustained injuries during the incident which occurred in the early hours of June 23 on O’Connell Street. He was rushed to the Mater Hospital where he remained critically ill until his passing yesterday.

A post-mortem examination is due to be conducted on his remains and the results will determine the direction of the investigation. Four men have been arrested in connection with the incident, with two already charged and appearing before the Criminal Courts of Justice.

Ionut Danca, 24, of Rathdown Square, North Circular Road, Dublin, and Madalin Ghiuzan, 23, of Summerhill Parade in Dublin, have both been charged with assault causing harm to Mr Dolmajian. Both men were denied bail at the Dublin District Court and are currently in custody.

Tributes have poured in for Mr Dolmajian, with many expressing their condolences to his family. One social media user wrote: “Sincere condolences to the family and friends of Neno Dolmajian. May he rest in peace,” while another commented: “Horrific attack. May he rest in peace and may his family be supported through this sad time. Dublin city seems to be becoming a no-go area.”

Gardai have confirmed investigations are ongoing. In a statement, An Garda Siochana confirmed Mr Dolmajian’s death: “Gardai are continuing to investigate the assault which occurred on O’Connell Street and Cathal Brugha Street, Dublin 1 on Sunday June 23.

“The man, aged in his 40s, who was taken to the Mater Hospital to be treated for injuries sustained during this incident, has died. To date, four men have been arrested in connection with this incident. Two of these men have been charged and appeared before the Criminal Courts of Justice. As this matter is currently before the courts no further information is available. Investigations are ongoing.”

Ghiuzan’s court appearance heard the accused was at Cathal Brugha Street with friends when Mr Dolmajian approached him. The court heard they had no prior contact, and they “engaged in a conversation”. It was alleged the accused was observed striking the Canadian several times before he and his friends went to O’Connell Street.

Mr Dolmajian was knocked on the ground. He made his way to O’Connell Street, close to the Spire, where there was another interaction between Ghiuzan and his group and Mr Dolmajian.

Construction worker Ionut Danca is accused of delivering a “full force kick to the head” to Mr Dolmajian at that point. Neither man has entered a plea.

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