‘Aidan left memories too good to forget’

The late Aidan Moffitt was a proud Rossie and a true Roscommon man, and his memory will live on forever, his family say. 

Last week at the Central Criminal Court in Dublin Yousef Palani was jailed for life for the murders of Lisacul native Aidan Moffitt and Michael Snee.

Ms Justice Mary Ellen Ring also sentenced the 23-year-old to a concurrent sentence of 20 years for causing serious harm to a third man, Anthony Burke.

Palani, last of Markievicz Heights in Sligo, appeared at court for his sentence hearing, having pleaded guilty to the murder of Aidan Moffitt (42) at Cartron Heights in Sligo on April 10th 2022.

He also pleaded guilty to the murder of Michael Snee (58) at City View, Connaughton Road, Sligo, two days later on April 12th 2022.

Palani further pleaded guilty to causing serious harm to Anthony Burke at Cleveragh Road in Sligo on April 9th 2022.

Outside the court solicitor for the Moffitt family William Henry expressed appreciation for the “unwavering, support, assistance and generosity” it has received from countless individuals, organisations and professional services.

They asked that Aidan, who was aged 41, be remembered for the “great person that he was, and not for the events that tragically ended his life”.

“Aidan had a smile and personality that lit up the world, and his caring, generous and fun loving nature made him a beloved presence in his family and friends’ lives,” said Mr Henry.

“Known for being a charismatic character in this community, Aidan’s wit, charm, and storytelling abilities brought joy to those around him. His love for his country, community and fellow citizens was unwavering. A proud Rossie and true Roscommon man, he took immense pride in his home and displayed boundless affection for his country throughout his life.” 

“Family was so important to Aidan and he was the best son he could be to his mother over the years and this was witnessed by all who knew him. The Moffitt family are utterly devastated, lost in grief and will forever be heartbroken and empty because of what has happened, and because of the fact that Aidan was taken in his prime, full of life, happiness, and love.

“Aidan’s memory will live on through multiple initiatives in his communities and he will not be forgotten by his family, friends or loved ones.” The family publicly thank everyone who has supported them throughout these “arduous last 18 months, especially friends and neighbours in Lisacul and Sligo, whose support has been ongoing and unwavering”.

The Moffitt family also wanted to thank all the emergency authorities and professional services that have worked on this case, since April 11th, 2022.

“It has not been easy on many working on this case,” Mr Henry said. He added that the Moffit family extended its thoughts to the family of Michael Snee, who was also murdered, and to Mr Anthony Burke, who suffered serious injuries at the hands of Palani.

“Amidst their immense sorrow, the Moffitts are thankful that Aidan was laid to rest and that they were able to see him at rest and say their goodbyes. Their hearts go out to families still searching for answers, facing attackers and those currently navigating the judicial process.

“As they conclude this difficult chapter, they kindly asked once again that Aidan be remembered for the incredible person he was, the wonderful life he made, and the cherished memories he left behind. The family now respectfully request privacy to be able to grieve and allow Aidan to continue to rest in peace. Aidan left memories too good to forget.”

In his victim impact statement, Mr Moffitt’s brother, Christy, said that the family’s lives were turned upside down with the news that Aidan had died.

“Our lives became a living nightmare. Not only were we dealing with the loss of Aidan, we were also trying to come to terms with hearing of the horror of how Aidan was brutally and senselessly murdered while also dealing with the intrusion of the media,” Mr  Moffitt said.

“We have lost a brother, uncle, son and friend which has left a hole in all of our lives that will never be filled and all of our lives have totally changed since Aidan was murdered," he said.