Emergency Christmas tragedy as fire claims the life of pensioner

A house fire in south county Dublin yesterday claimed the life of a pensioner - less than a fortnight after an elderly couple died when fire destroyed their Portmarnock home.

A man in his 80s was pronounced dead at the scene on Dundrum Road.

The blaze broke out at around 4pm and emergency services rushed to battle the blaze.

An elderly woman who was in the house was taken to hospital as a precaution.

The man's body has since been removed to St Columcille's Hospital in Loughlinstown where a post mortem will take place.

It is understood that foul play is not suspected and enquiries are ongoing.

Anne Colgan, an Independent councillor for Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, said the sad news is especially hard in the run-up to Christmas.

"It's just tragic for the family," she said.

It's not known what caused the blaze, but she said the incident should underscore the dangers at this time of year from Christmas trees and unattended candles.

Memories

The tragedy occurred less than a fortnight after a fire destroyed the home and claimed the lives of grandparents Michael (70) and Beatrice Hurley (69).

The couple raised their five adult children in the family home where they had lived for more than 40 years.

On Sunday their children gathered to share their memories of their beloved parents after they were laid to rest.

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Herald