A close-knit community is left shocked this morning after waking up to the news that two people have died in a house fire.
A man and a woman were discovered by firefighters late last night in Portmarnock, North Dublin after they managed to fight back the flames after the house went ablaze at around 10.30pm.
Crowds surrounded the area at Beach Park across the street from the Portmarnock Links hotel as many looked on devastated at the scene, including two children of the man and woman who tragically lost their lives, Dublin Live reports.
The smoke from the fire could be smelt for miles, breaking through the thick fog that began to develop across the capital overnight.
As the community came together this morning to process the shocking news, many spoke fondly of the family who have been left devastated.
One local said: "The whole community is stunned, the family are very well liked across the area. They had several children and grandchildren. You could smell the smoke all across the village last night. We really are a community in shock this morning."
Dublin Fire Brigade this morning said in a statement: "Overnight firefighters were called to a well developed house fire in Portmarnock.
" Crews in breathing apparatus fought the fire and sadly, the remains of 2 people were discovered. Our thoughts are with the families, friends and community at this difficult time.
Meanwhile Fianna Fail Senator Lorraine Clifford Lee said: Such tragic news coming from Portmarnock this morning. May they rest in peace
In a statement issued this morning, gardai said they are investigation all circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
They have also appealed for any witnesses to come forward and help with the investigation. A post mortem is due to take place.
A spokeswoman said: "Gardaí in Malahide are investigating all of the circumstances surrounding the death of two people following a fatal house fire at Beach Park, Portmarnock, Co. Dublin last night, Saturday 5th December, 2020.
"At approximately 10.30p.m. Gardaí were alerted to a house fire at Beach Park, Portmarnock, Co. Dublin. The fire was brought under control by Dublin Fire Brigade and two bodies (male and female) was discovered inside the house. Death was pronounced at the scene a short time later.
"Investigating Gardaí have preserved the scene as they work towards establishing the cause of the fire. The bodies will be removed to the Dublin City Mortuary, Whitehall where a post mortem examination will be conducted by the State Pathologist in due course. Results of the post mortem and a technical examination of the scene will determine the course of the Garda investigation.
"Gardaí are appealing for witnesses to contact the incident room at Malahide Garda Station. Anyone with information is asked to contact Malahide Garda Station on 01-666 4600, the Garda Confidential Line 1800 666 111 or any Garda Station."
