The Detective Garda shot dead last night joined the force in 1995 and was an experienced officer.
Colm Horkan who was in his late 40s is survived by his father, sister and three brothers.
The Taoiseach has led tributes to him, saying his thoughts are with all those grieving as a result of the shooting.
Leo Varadkar said gardai put themselves on the frontline every day and sometimes they make the ultimate sacrifice in the course of their duties.
I extend my deepest sympathies to the family and friends of the Garda who has died in the course of their duties.
Every day our Gardai put themselves on the frontline of crime prevention, on behalf of all of us. This requires regular acts of bravery and courage.— Leo Varadkar (@LeoVaradkar) June 18, 2020
President Michael D Higgins says 'An Garda Síochána play a crucial role in our communities and this loss of life is traumatic for our society as a whole.
Statement by President Higgins on death of a member of @gardainfo in Castlerea: https://t.co/krgeuGlCzT pic.twitter.com/npG8VooPPh
— President of Ireland (@PresidentIRL) June 18, 2020
Meanwhile, the Justice Minister says he’s shocked and saddened at the shooting, saying the garda's heroism will never be forgotten.
Charlie Flanagan described him as a brave garda who died protecting the community.
Detective Garda Colm Horkan.
RIP - 17th June 2020.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam. pic.twitter.com/wHKVRYMqOA— An Garda Síochána (@GardaTraffic) June 18, 2020
