Garda inquiry launched after body found following house fire

A GARDA investigation was under way last night after the body of a man in his sixties was discovered at his house in Co Galway which had been damaged by fire.

Gardaí started the investigation after a small fire was discovered at the house on the main Galway-Roscommon road near Ballyglunin.

It is believed the man may have died of natural causes. But gardaí launched the inquiry as minor smoke damage occurred in the house.

The man was named locally as Mattie Finn, a farmer who was married with four adult children.

His body was discovered at his bungalow just off the N63 Galway-Roscommon road at an area known as Finn’s Cross. It is believed he was in the house on his own overnight and his body was discovered at 12.30pm yesterday.

The scene was preserved pending the arrival last night of the State Pathologist.

Gardaí do not believe foul play was involved. “All aspects of the incident will be investigated as per normal procedures,” said a Garda spokesman who added that anyone with information should contact Tuam gardaí on 093-24202.

Mr Finn was well known in farming circles in the area and his death has caused widespread shock.

Meanwhile, a fire in Co Laois severely damaged a pub. Seven units of Mountmellick Fire Brigade were called to fight a blaze at Horan’s bar in the town square.

No other building was affected, but occupants of nearby premises were evacuated. The cause of the fire has yet to be determined.