LAST UPDATE | 3 hrs ago

GARDAÍ IN KERRY have rearrested the chief suspect in the murder of Kenmare farmer Michael Gaine.

The man, who has been living in State funded accomodation in the Tralee area of Kerry, was questioned previously but it is understood gardaí have now discovered new evidence. 

Michael ‘Mike’ Gaine (56) was first reported missing almost a year ago on 21 March last. 

Gardaí had suspected that he was a victim of murder from early in the investigation and had carried out extensive searches. 

Those searches, which also involved members of the Defence Forces and voluntary groups in the area, proved fruitless. 

In May, 2025 gardaí confirmed that they had discovered partial human remains at the missing man’s farm.

The body parts were found when a farm hand had began spreading slurry across a field. The Journal learned that the remains apparently came from inside a tank which had been searched by fire brigade personnel during the initial stages of the garda investigation but that they had not been found. 

Gardaí had identified a man who had been staying on the farm as a possible suspect. That man was arrested and questioned under the provisions of Section Four of the Criminal Justice Act shortly after the body was found. 

Gardaí can rearrest someone for questioning when they discover new evidence. 

The man was detained this morning and taken to the garda station in Castleisland. 

He can be questioned for a maximum of 24 hours excluding rest periods. 

The Gaine investigation has been a difficult one for gardaí with little physical evidence to show for their work. 

Mike Gaine’s car was found at the front of the property with his wallet still seen inside. 

The last footage of the man was when he was spotted earlier buying phone credit at a grocery shop in Kenmare.

At his funeral Michael Gaine’ cousin Eoghan Clarke said his relative was known for his incredible work ethic, personality and humour, and was a loving son, sibling and uncle.

He recalled his passion for rallying, farming, current affairs, holidays and music.

“As we all know, Michael was generous. Incredibly generous. He had time for everyone and would chip in to help any time and any place.

“Caring and affectionate. Kind and considerate. He was not afraid to show his emotions. He was also brave, fearless and strong,” he said.

Gardaí confirmed the arrest this morning and said that a man in his 50s has been detained.

“A man (aged in his 50’s) has been arrested in connection with the investigation this morning, Tuesday 24th February 2026.

“He is currently detained at a Garda Station in Kerry Garda Division. The investigation led by Serious Crime Unit Kerry Division has been and continues to be supported by the Garda National Bureau of Criminal Investigation (GNBCI).

“An Garda Síochána through family liaison officers continue to liaise with and support the family of Michael Gaine,” a statement said.