Homicide investigation launched into death of toddler Daniel Aruebose as Gardai confirm DNA of remains matches boy

Gardai have urged the public not to assume they know all the details and come forward with information
A HOMICIDE investigation has been launched into the death of tragic child Daniel Aruebose.

Gardai made the dramatic move after the skeletal remains of the youngster were finally formally identified.

Partial human skeletal remains were found after a 16-day search of an area of scrubland close to his home in Donabate, north Co Dublin, in September.

In a major update, cops confirmed the long-awaited DNA analysis has now confirmed that the remains were those of Daniel.

Officers also revealed tragic Daniel would have turned eight tomorrow.

Gardai have now launched a homicide probe in a bid to solve the riddle of exactly what happened to the child, who was last seen four years ago.

Gardai confirmed that Daniel’s family continue to be updated on the probe.

And they renewed their appeal for anyone with information to come forward.

But they urged people to independently verify any content related to the case they they may hear.

A spokesperson for the force said: “Gardaí in Swords continue to investigate all of the circumstances surrounding the death of Daniel Aruebose.

“On 17th September 2025, Gardaí recovered the human remains of a child on open ground in Donabate.

“DNA analysis has since confirmed these remains to be those of Daniel.

‘COMMENCED A HOMICIDE INVESTIGATION’

“Following enquiries conducted to date and based on information available to investigating Gardaí, An Garda Síochána has commenced a homicide investigation into Daniel’s death.

“Gardaí continue to keep Daniel’s family informed of all developments in this ongoing criminal investigation.

“An Garda Síochána is again appealing to the public for any information that may assist in the investigation into the homicide of Daniel Aruebose.

“Members of the public are urged not to assume that Gardaí already possess information they may hold, or that any detail is too small or insignificant.

CONTACT ‘TREATED IN THE STRICTEST CONFIDENCE’

“The investigation team will determine the relevance of any information provided.

“All contact will be welcomed and treated in the strictest confidence.

“Anyone with information is asked to contact Swords Garda Station on 01 666 4700, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or at any Garda Station.

“An Garda Síochána is aware of the extensive public commentary that has circulated in relation to this investigation.

“Gardaí are appealing to all members of the public to verify any information they encounter—particularly speculation, rumours, or theories about what may have happened to Daniel.

“Please independently verify any content you read on social media or messaging apps before sharing it.”