Mystery over van used in murder of missing man found abandoned in Louth
June 16, 2026, marks the 40th anniversary of the murder of Terence McKeever, who was believed to be abducted while passing through Ardee, Slane and Monaghan.
On June 18, 1986, a blue Toyota Liteace van with stolen number plates ‘UZY 125’ was found abandoned on the N52 at Mapastown, Ardee, Co. Louth.
The van had been stolen in Dundalk on May 21, 1986 and is believed to have been the vehicle used in the murder of Terence McKeever. The murder is the subject of a renewed garda information appeal 40 years on.
It is believed that McKeever travelled along the N2 from Dublin and was abducted somewhere on his attended route on the way to Armagh Town.
At approximately 6.50am on the morning of June 16, 1986, 30-year-old Terence McKeever set out from his home at Pembroke Road, Ballsbridge, Dublin in a champagne-coloured BMW 735i.
His remains were discovered in Mullaghduff Bridge in south Armagh where he was believed to be fatally shot.
McKeever’s car was recovered the following day in Carnagh, Co. Armagh.
Gardai are appealing for those with information on the investigation to contact them.
Anyone with information can contact Ardee Garda Station on 041 685 3222, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda station.
Investigating Gardaí are particularly interested in information on the following:
• Terence McKeever’s movements on the morning of 16th June 1986.
• The theft and storage of a blue Toyota Liteace van registration number ‘7533 KI’ (or the stolen registration number ‘UZY 125’ between 21st May 1986 and 18th June 1986.
• The movements of McKeever’s champagne-coloured BMW 735i (registration ‘FIB 735’), which was subsequently found at Carnagh, Co Armagh on 17th June 1986.