Luxury hotel murder shock: American faces charge over father's death

CO LAOIS, Ireland - A 30-year-old American man has been charged with the murder of his father at a five-star hotel in County Laois.

Henry McGowan, of Clinton Street, Brooklyn, New York, was charged with the offense, which allegedly occurred on Tuesday, November 12, at Ballyfin Demesne, Ballyfin, County Laois.

John McGowan, 60, was found unresponsive in the hotel's recreational area and later confirmed dead.

Detective Garda Ger Galwey provided proof of the arrest and stated that when cautioned, Mr McGowan made no response to the charge.

Judge Andrew Cody remanded the accused in custody to Cloverhill Prison and scheduled a video link hearing for November 18th.

Defending solicitor, Barry Fitzgerald said the court lacked power to grant bail.

He stated that it had been accepted that his client has major mental health concerns and requested Judge Cody to order that the prison service provide Mr McGowan with emergency medical care, which he agreed to.

Garda Ger Galwey said that the motive behind the murder has not been confirmed yet.