Ruth Purcell Healy remanded in custody after special court sitting

Ruth Purcell Healy, 37, of Bishop’s Field, Williamstown Road, Waterford, has been charged with the murder of her six-year-old son, Matthew Healy. She appeared in a special sitting of Waterford District Court, where Detective Sergeant David Shoer provided evidence of her arrest, caution, and charge.

The court heard that Matthew was found unresponsive in the back seat of a car in Rathmoylan, Co Waterford, on 8 or 9 February. Following her charge, Ruth Purcell Healy was remanded in custody until the next Tuesday, with Judge Kevin Staunton ordering a psychiatric evaluation upon her arrival at Limerick prison.

First responders attempted to resuscitate Matthew at the scene before rushing him to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead. His funeral is scheduled to take place at the Church of the Immaculate Conception, Watergrasshill, Co Cork, followed by a private service at The Island Crematorium Ringaskiddy.

Matthew’s father, James Healy, expressed gratitude for the vigils held in his son’s memory and requested privacy during this difficult time.

The tragic incident has deeply affected the community, with hundreds attending vigils in Waterford to remember Matthew.