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Limerick city is preparing for a significant security presence and a somber atmosphere as final arrangements are confirmed for the burial of Scarlett Faulkner, the 29-year-old mother whose death has sparked a major investigation. Following a harrowing three-week period in intensive care, the focus now shifts to the legal and communal aftermath of the tragedy that occurred on the R494.
A Family’s Call for Dignity
The grieving Faulkner family has taken the unusual step of issuing a public mandate to ensure the sanctity of the upcoming services. Victoria Faulkner, Scarlett’s sister, speaking on behalf of their father, emphasized that the family’s priority is a peaceful environment to honor the young mother’s memory. She told journalists that the family has endured the hardest three weeks of their lives and cannot tolerate further unrest.
Read more: Mum, 29, 'assaulted on roadside' dies
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In a direct message to the community, Victoria appealed for restraint, specifically requesting that mourners "pass each other" without confrontation. The family has also strictly prohibited the presence of alcohol at the wake and funeral proceedings to prevent any escalation of tension. Victoria told journalists that any drink cannot be allowed near the funerals or wakes, noting that they simply want no trouble at all at Scarlett’s funeral.
Legal Developments and Next Steps
As the community prepares for the funeral, the Gardaí are expected to escalate their investigation. Following Scarlett’s passing at Cork University Hospital after being removed from life support, the nature of the inquiry has shifted. Legal experts suggest that the Director of Public Prosecutions will now review the evidence to determine if existing charges against any persons of interest will be upgraded to reflect the fatal outcome of the assault.
The incident, which took place on March 21 at Birdhill, involved an alleged assault with an iron bar. Forensic evidence collected from the R494 and medical reports from the three-week period Scarlett spent in hospital will form the backbone of the upcoming criminal proceedings.
Funeral Service Schedule
The funeral proceedings will commence at Cross’s Funeral Home on Lower Gerald Griffin Street this Thursday, April 16, with reposing scheduled from 2pm to 4pm. This will be followed by the funeral Mass on Friday at 11am at St Munchin’s Church, Clancy Strand. The final interment will take place at Meelick Cemetery, where heavy attendance is anticipated.
Community leaders and local authorities are expected to monitor the events closely to ensure the family's wishes are respected. The Faulkner family continues to receive widespread support from the northside of Limerick as they transition from a bedside vigil to a final farewell.
