A man has been arrested in connection with a savage attack in County Donegal that left a young man fighting for his life. Charles Dooher was viciously set upon by five masked men at his home in Lifford on January 20, 2025, suffering life-changing injuries.
Suspect in His 50s Held by Gardai
The suspect, a man in his 50s, was arrested by gardai over the Easter weekend. He was questioned under section 50 of the Criminal Justice Act, 2007 at a Garda Station in the North Western Region before being released without charge. Investigators say a file will now be prepared for the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.
“Gardai arrested a man in connection with the investigation into an attempted murder in Lifford, Co. Donegal, on 20th January, 2025. The man, aged in his 50s, was arrested on Sunday 5th April 2026 and detained at a Garda Station in the North Western Region under section 50 of the Criminal Justice Act, 2007. He has since been released and a file will be prepared for the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.”
Young Farmer Left Fighting for Life
The victim and his father, Charles Snr, were brutally beaten by a gang at their home at 10am. Charles Snr, in his 60s, received treatment for less serious injuries at Letterkenny University Hospital. Charles Jr, however, was airlifted to the Royal Victoria Hospital in Belfast, where he spent weeks in intensive care.
- The young farmer underwent several operations and had a protective plate fitted to his head.
- His family and girlfriend, Charlotte Gallen, kept a bedside vigil, praying for his recovery.
- Charles eventually survived and was released from the hospital, but continues his recovery.
Charles Speaks Out on Recovery
On social media, Charles opened up about his ordeal and ongoing recovery:
“One year ago today, if the organisers got their way, I wouldn’t be here. Only for God himself, air ambulance, surgeons, family, loved ones and all of yous that prayed for me, I’ll never be able to thank yous properly! I am walking proof of grace, learning to walk and talk again along with many other things. God help the people that done this, they will all have to face God himself some day.”
Ongoing Investigation Amid Dissident Republican Links
Police on both sides of the border are probing the attack. One line of inquiry involves possible dissident republican involvement. Gardai continue to urge the public to come forward with any information or witnesses related to the attack.
