THE OFF DUTY Garda who was shot and seriously injured in New Orleans has thanked those who helped him during his tough ordeal.

Brian Hanrahan (30) was on holidays in the US city when he was shot several times after refusing to hand over cash in an attempted mugging in the early hours of 27 January.

Hanrahan is originally from Tipperary but is based in Newcastle West in Limerick. He was on holiday with his father, Brian Snr, when the incident happened.

Arrest 

Two brothers, Melvin Galle Jnr and Keith Galle, have been arrested in relation to the shooting.

Releasing a statement this evening, he said he is now home and “beginning to recuperate with the help of my family and friends”.

I would like to thank all of the staff at LSU Hospital in New Orleans, they are an amazing team and I would not be here today without them.I would like to express my gratitude to the New Orleans Police Department, the Emerald Society and the people of New Orleans.

Their kindness and generosity will never be forgotten both by me and my family.

I would also like to thank the Irish Community both home and abroad for the many kind messages of support.

Hanrahan also thanked his colleagues in An Garda Síochána and “the amazing community in Newcastle West for their support and well wishes”.

Obviously I have a long road ahead with pain management and rehabilitation but I am hopeful that these will be effective and I can get back to my normal life.

He said he and his family would be most grateful if their privacy could be respected at this time so that he can concentrate fully on his recovery.

Background: Two brothers arrested over shooting of garda in New Orleans