Kerry mountain rescuers find a body in search for missing walker

Rescue workers searching for a missing man in the MacGillycuddy Reeks in Co Kerry have discovered a body.

John Dunne (61) from Tipperary, an experienced walker, left his accommodation about 11am on Wednesday, saying he planned to walk among the peaks.

He later contacted his lodgings by mobile phone at about 5.30pm to say that he was making his way back. When he did not return by 11pm the alarm was raised and the Kerry Mountain Rescue team set up a search from first light on Thursday.

A major search and rescue operation was aided by the Coastguard helicopter Rescue 117, which was deployed from its base in Co Waterford. It was also assisted by the Iveragh Coast Guard Unit using drones, as well as search dogs and their handlers from the Search and Rescue Dog Association (SARDA).

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Mr Dunne’s family issued a photograph of him in hope that other walkers who may have seen him throughout the day would be would be able to assist in planning a map of where he had been walking and was last seen.

However, early on Friday, Kerry Mountain Rescue said a body had been found and shortly afterwards the Garda Press Office issued a statement to say “the missing person appeal for John Dunne is being stood down”. The Garda thanked all those who assisted with the search.