A shroud of mystery envelops the untimely death of Constable Peter Cullinane, a resident of Croom, who met a tragic fate while returning home from Limerick on Monday evening. Cullinane had a bicycle accident just outside the city, and the incident has raised numerous questions.

After falling from his bicycle, Cullinane was found unconscious and promptly attended to. He was initially taken to the lodge of Mr John F. Power and later transferred to Ballinacurra Police Barrack, where he ultimately passed away the following day.

Cullinane, a married man of 44 years, had served in the police force for 24 years. The circumstances of his death have left many baffled and curious. During the inquest, Mr Power testified that Cullinane had complained of head pains and moaned. He downplayed the bicycle fall as insignificant and even mentioned a desire to end his life. He reached for a revolver but ultimately declined a stimulant.

In the barrack, he slept from 12:30 AM to 4:30 AM, then descended the stairs, only to suddenly collapse and pass away within half an hour. Dr Kennedy, who provided medical evidence, indicated that the deceased had a history of alcoholism. However, the precise cause of death could not be determined until an analysis of the viscera was conducted. As a result, the inquest was adjourned for a fortnight, leaving unanswered questions lingering over this mysterious and tragic event.

Kerry News – Friday 22 June 1906