Irish Woman Killed in Queens, Killer Gets 24 Years

A man in New York has been sentenced to 24 years in prison for the manslaughter of an Irish woman in Queens last year. The woman, Sarah McNally, was originally from County Longford, Ireland, and was working in the Céilí House pub in Maspeth at the time of the attack.

The attack occurred after Ms. McNally ended her relationship with Marcin Pieciak, the accused, and told him she planned to return to Ireland. Pieciak, who was reportedly distraught over the breakup, stabbed her 19 times in a violent assault. The injuries were severe, affecting her neck, back, and chest. Specifically, her carotid artery was damaged, and her spine was severed, leaving her in critical condition. She was rushed to a local hospital, but tragically, she was pronounced dead.

Pieciak initially faced murder charges but agreed to plead guilty to first-degree manslaughter last month. During his court hearing, he accepted responsibility for his actions and expressed deep remorse. He admitted he had no explanation for why he attacked Ms. McNally and said he thinks about her every day. He also addressed her family in Ireland, saying he hoped they might one day forgive him.

After stabbing Ms. McNally, Pieciak attempted to stab himself in the neck with a second blade he had brought, but pub patrons intervened, restraining him until police arrived at the scene.

The Céilí House pub, where the attack occurred, is a well-known Irish bar in Maspeth, Queens, and the violent incident shocked both local patrons and the Irish community. The attack highlights ongoing concerns about domestic violence and the dangers of escalated personal disputes.

The court’s sentencing brings a measure of justice for Sarah McNally and her family, providing a clear message about accountability for violent acts. Pieciak will serve 24 years in prison, ensuring he cannot harm anyone else.