A Drogheda priest says some local people are nervous when it gets dark because of the ongoing violent feud in the town.
A prayer service was held in the Co Louth town yesterday for 17-year-old Keane Mulready-Woods, who was brutally murdered last week.
Members of the teenager's family were among those who attended the service.
Father Phil Gaffney, the parish priest for St Mary's Parish and Holy Family in Drogheda, said it was held early in the day so people would come.
Speaking on Newstalk Breakfast, Fr Gaffney explained: "[People] felt that the prayers gave them some comfort and solace.
"We had the prayer service in the afternoon - while it was bright - because people are worried and concerned.
"People hear the police helicopter and the police in the area all the time."
He added: "Particularly elderly people that would have been there yesterday... we held in the afternoon for that reason... so that people would feel happy to come out.
"They would be anxious when it comes to dark as well - they just don't know what's going on."
On yesterday's service itself, Fr Gaffney said the presence of Keane Mulready-Woods' family was 'very poignant'.
He explained: "They were very appreciative of the fact that so many people came out to support them at this horrific time for them.
"In the circumstances, they're doing well. Obviously, they're devastated, and devastated by the manner in which the young man's life was taken.
"I think that's the hardest part for them - not only to lose a son and a brother, but the manner in which the young man was murdered is just beyond belief."
