A man in his 50s has been charged in connection with the disappearance and murder of Kerry farmer Michael Gaine.
The suspect, who is 54 years old according to some reports and previously identified himself as American Michael Kelley, is set to appear before Tralee District Court this afternoon (Wednesday, February 25, 2026).
Michael Gaine, aged 56, was last seen on March 20, 2025. He was reported missing the following day, Friday, March 21, 2025, from his home and 1,000-acre sheep farm at Carraig East (also referred to as Carhoomeengar East or Sheep’s Rest), approximately 8km from Kenmare, Co Kerry.
Human tissue discovered on the farm was later identified in May 2025 as belonging to Mr Gaine, prompting gardaà to upgrade the case to a murder investigation. His remains were dismembered.
Mr Gaine was a well-known figure in local farming and motorsport communities.
A large-scale search ensued after his disappearance, with hundreds of volunteers combing the rugged, mountainous terrain of his extensive farm. The operation was coordinated by gardaà and the Irish Coast Guard, while the Garda Water Unit searched nearby lakes, streams, and rivers within a 5km radius of his home.
This is the second time the man has been arrested in connection with the case; he was previously detained and questioned in May 2025 but released without charge at that time.
