Stove may be behind elderly couple’s death

THE deaths of an elderly couple, whose bodies were discovered in an armchair and bedroom in their home, was accidental, a post-motem examination has confirmed.

While investigators await the results of toxicology tests, it’s believed Michael Hurley, 83, and Mary Holohan, 79, from Johnswell Road in Kilkenny, died as a result of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Examinations were performed yesterday by assistant state pathologist Dr Michael Curtis at University Hospital Waterford and it’s understood they revealed no traumatic external injuries.

Technical examinations will now be carried out on a stove used in the couple’s house to try and find out more about the circumstances behind the tragedy.

Although described as ‘reserved’ by those who knew them, the couple were nevertheless very well known throughout Kilkenny.

It’s understood Ms Holohan, who was previously married, lived with Mr Hurley for about the last 20 years.

Family members became concerned when they couldn’t contact them and it’s understood that a relative called to the house at about 7pm on Wednesday and forced his way in.

He then found the body of Mr Corcoran in an armchair and the body of Ms Holohan in a bedroom. Gardaí and ambulance personnel arrived quickly but the two were pronounced dead at the scene.

Their remains were taken to Waterford University Hospital on Thursday for post-mortem examinations and were expected to be released to family members, to allow funeral arrangements be made, last night.

Speculation that the deaths of Ms Holohan and Mr Hurley were caused by carbon monoxide has prompted reminders to householders to keep carbon monoxide alarms in their homes.