Policing watchdog sends file to DPP after man's death in Dublin

The policing watchdog Fiosrú has completed its independent investigation into the death of Paul Butler, a 51-year-old Dublin man. Fiosrú has sent a file to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) and awaits their direction.

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Fiosrú said it has concluded its independent investigation into the death of Paul Butler

Butler died following an incident on O'Connell Street on August 15, 2025, after an interaction with gardaí. It is believed he hit his head on the ground and later died in hospital. Fiosrú launched its investigation hours after the incident, as required by law when a person dies or is seriously harmed following garda interaction.

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The police oversight body said it has forwarded its investigation file to the DPP and it is awaiting direction from prosecutors.

The investigation involved two witness appeals. Fiosrú has informed Mr. Butler's family of the decision to send the file to the DPP. A garda member arrested and questioned in connection with the death has also been notified. Fiosrú stated it cannot comment further at this time.

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Fiosrú opened its independent statutory investigation hours after the incident following a mandatory referral from An Garda Síochána.