A murder investigation is under way following the disappearance of an eight-year-old boy.
Kyran Durnin was reported missing to gardai in August, but had not been seen for some time before.
Gardaí began a missing persons inquiry but said in spite of extensive inquiries they have been unable to find Kyran or identify any information on his current whereabouts.
They also say they have not discovered any evidence that Kyran is still alive and now suspect he may have died violently.
Gardaí say they now believe Kyran is missing presumed dead and have begun a murder investigation
The investigation is being led by a Senior Investigation Officer based out of an incident room established at Drogheda Garda Station.
Gardaí are appealing to anyone who has any information in connection the disappearance of Kyran to contact Drogheda Garda Station on 041 987 4200 , the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any garda station.
Gardaí say Tusla, the Child and Family Agency, is fully co-operating and working closely with the investigation and fully co-operating with the garda investigation.
No arrests have been made so far.
When the missing persons report was filed with gardaí, Kyran was last seen on Wednesday 28 August 2024 at approximately 11pm.