Volunteer Killed Before Boston St. Patrick's Day Parade

Authorities investigating credible threat that led to security volunteer's death

Mar. 14, 2026 at 6:37am

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A 23-year-old volunteer for the Boston St. Patrick's Day Parade was shot and killed after uncovering a credible threat against the event. Lena and Detective Danny Reagan of the Boston Police Department are investigating the murder of Conor Fahey, who was hoping to one day become a police officer. Fahey had discovered information about a potential threat to the parade and was killed before he could fully share the details. The police are now racing against time to uncover the nature of the threat and ensure the safety of the annual celebration.

Why it matters

The St. Patrick's Day Parade is a beloved tradition in Boston, drawing thousands of revelers each year. Any credible threat of violence could lead to the parade being canceled, disappointing many and dealing a blow to the city's spirit. Authorities are under pressure to find the perpetrators and stop the threat before it's too late.

The details

Conor Fahey, a 23-year-old volunteer on the parade committee, was meeting with Boston Police Detective Lena and providing information about a potential threat when he was shot and killed. Fahey had gotten into an altercation earlier that night with a security specialist named Floyd Conkel, who Fahey believed had information about the threat. Conkel refused to share the details without being paid the full $500 fee, leading to the confrontation. Investigators believe Fahey was killed to prevent him from revealing what he had discovered about the looming threat to the parade.

  • On the night of March 13, 2026, Conor Fahey was shot and killed after meeting with Detective Lena.
  • Earlier that evening, Fahey got into a fight with security specialist Floyd Conkel over access to security camera footage.

The players

Conor Fahey

A 23-year-old volunteer on the Boston St. Patrick's Day Parade committee who was hoping to one day become a police officer.

Detective Lena

A Boston Police Department detective investigating the murder of Conor Fahey and the threat to the St. Patrick's Day Parade.

Detective Danny Reagan

A Boston Police Department detective assisting in the investigation of the Conor Fahey murder and the threat to the St. Patrick's Day Parade.

Floyd Conkel

A security specialist who got into an altercation with Conor Fahey over access to security camera footage that Fahey believed contained information about a threat to the parade.

Sarah

The Superintendent of the Boston Police Department, who has promised to ensure the safety of the St. Patrick's Day Parade.

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What they’re saying

“We must find out what Conor Fahey discovered and stop this threat before it's too late.”

— Detective Lena, Boston Police Department

“I promised the people of Boston a safe parade, and I intend to keep that promise no matter what.”

— Superintendent Sarah

What’s next

Detectives Lena and Danny will continue investigating the murder of Conor Fahey and the potential threat to the St. Patrick's Day Parade, working to uncover the details Fahey had discovered before his death. They will also need to determine if the threat is credible and take appropriate action to ensure the safety of the annual celebration.

The takeaway

This tragic incident highlights the challenges law enforcement faces in balancing public safety with preserving beloved community traditions. The Boston Police Department must act quickly to identify and neutralize any genuine threats, while also maintaining the spirit of the St. Patrick's Day Parade that is so important to the city's identity.