The family of a Galway man shot dead by UK police has been told they are right to feel “shock” and “hurt” as they laid him to rest in an emotional funeral service on Monday. David Joyce, 38, was fatally shot by armed police at Milton Keynes railway station on April 1st after reportedly approaching officers with a knife.
Police were called to the busy station just before 1pm after reports of a man seen with a gun. According to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), Mr Joyce was challenged by officers and then ran towards them at speed while armed with a knife. He was shot once in the abdomen at close range and died at the scene, despite efforts by police to administer first aid.
Emotional Tributes Paid During Funeral in Galway
A funeral Mass was held at the Holy Family Church in Mervue, where Fr Martin Glynn told mourners that grief from such a sudden death is both natural and profound. “Today that hurt, that shock, and that sadness is felt most deeply by David’s mother, grandmother, brothers and sisters, nieces and nephews, and friends,” he said.
David’s younger brother, Dean, broke down as he delivered a eulogy describing his brother as “adventurous, mischievous, and kind-hearted.” Their sister Rachael stepped in to complete the tribute, recalling how David had always shown love and care for his siblings. She also spoke of his recent trip home to Galway, which gave the family one final moment together before his death.
No Mention of Police Shooting During Service
The funeral service made no direct reference to the circumstances surrounding Mr Joyce’s death. However, the IOPC confirmed that all armed officers involved in the incident are currently being treated as witnesses in its ongoing investigation.
The Joyce family requested no flowers at the service and instead asked for donations to be made to the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust, which supports families dealing with the sudden loss of loved ones abroad.
