Gardaí are waiting on toxicology reports to determine the cause of death of two people in a property in Dublin’s north inner city yesterday afternoon.
The bodies of John Glennon (68) and Debbie McEvoy (64) were found in the apartment in Drumalee Court, Stoneybatter, part of a complex for older people owned by Dublin City Council.
It was initially suspected that the pair died of a gas leak, but after its investigation Bord Gáis said there was no evidence of a leak at the apartment or the apartments below and beside it. The company added that no natural gas had been used in the property for about six years.There was an electric heater in the apartment but the main source of heating was not established.
Toxicology reports
The toxicology reports will determine whether the pair died from inhaling carbon monoxide or other causes.
Mr Glennon’s neighbour Tom Mullane said he had been a very sociable person. “He was a very jolly man. He was a great character and was very social. We called him Elvis because he always wore a cowboy hat and a tie with a guitar on it,” he said.
“He didn’t have many visitors over but he loved walking around on his Zimmer frame. I’ll miss him. always looked after him. There was a time I thought they were brother and sister.”
It is believed the pair had recently formed a relationship. Last night, a friend of Ms McEvoy said she was suspicious of the apartment during a recent visit.
“There was a smell in there before Christmas. They’d never think of opening a window,” she said. “She was one of the kindest people I have ever met in my life.”
Minister of State Joe Costello, who dealt with Mr Glennon on two occasions regarding a bus pass, a homeless friend and his walking frame, said he was a very lively man.
‘Heart and soul’
“I knew him well. He was the heart and soul of the party and would get up and sing. He was at the Christmas party on Prussia Street a few days before Christmas and he was up singing,” he said. “People should ensure that all their household appliances are functioning properly and that their homes are safe and secure. I wish to convey my condolences to the family and friends of the deceased.”
Dublin City Council confirmed it owned the complex, but would not comment on the incident.