Tributes paid to Swinford Garda who died on duty fifteen years ago

An Garda Siochana have remembered Swinford man Garda Robert McCallion, 15 years on from his passing.

The 29-year-old, was struck by a speeding car after responding with two colleagues to a call at Tara Court in Letterkenny on March 26, 2009.  He sustained serious injuries and was conveyed to Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, where he died from his injuries on April 7, 2009. 

Garda McCallion was given a full State funeral with full honours. He had served four years in the force when he died. 

“Today, on the 15th anniversary of his death we remember our very dear friend and colleague, Garda Robert Mc Callion,” An Garda Síochána Donegal posted.

“Garda McCallion, late of Swinford, Co Mayo, and Letterkenny, Co Donegal, very sadly lost his life in the line of duty. He is never far from the thoughts of all those who had the pleasure of working with him. Our thoughts are also with the McCallion family today. May Robbie's gentle soul rest in peace. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.”

The son of a garda, Bob, who was from Carndonagh, Robbie followed a family tradition by joining the force as his brother, uncles and cousin also served in An Garda Síochána. He took a particular interest in his local GAA club in Swinford having played underage Gaelic football with Mayo, where he had made an appearance for the senior team.