Former Derry GAA star victim of ‘sickening’ attack

Burns, a member of Derry’s All Ireland winning squad in 1993, sustained serious facial injuries after he was attacked in the early hours of February 23rd.

A Gardai spokesperson stated that a 42-year-old male was assaulted at West End, Main Street, Buncrana, around 3.20am.

The victim, who sustained bone fractures to his face, was taken by ambulance to Altnagelvin Hospital in Derry.

Burns later underwent surgery and is currently recovering at his Draperstown home. The GAA star was believed to be on his way home after attending a bonding session along with players from his home club, St Colm’s Ballinascreen.

A spokesperson for the Club spoke of the shock and repulsion felt by everyone in the Parish over the incident.

“Eamonn is one the best guys you would ever want to meet in your lifetime.

“He was just out for the night along the rest of the Ballinascreen players when he became the victim of an unprovoked attack.

“All of the people in the parish are sickened by whathas happened.

“We are deeply saddened by the whole incident and our thoughts at this time are with Eamonn and his family.”

Eamonn Burns is recognised as one of the most talented forwards to represent the Oak Leaf County. He currently works as a schoolteacher in St Columb’s Derry.