A note found where the bodies of a mother and her baby son were discovered at their home in a suspected murder-suicide will be a major focus of the investigation.
Named locally as Kate Donohoe, 35, and her seven-month-old son Vincent, gardai have said they are not looking for anyone else over the incident. The discovery was made in an upstairs bedroom by gardai and emergency services at the property in Clonee, West Dublin, on Saturday afternoon.
A friend of Kate’s had become concerned they could not get in touch with her in the 24 hours prior. Postmortems are due to be carried out to establish the cause of the deaths, which gardai say they are treating as a family tragedy.
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There was no one else in the Beechfield estate property at the time. A Garda Family Liaison Officer has been appointed.
In a statement, gardai said: “The outcomes of postmortem examinations will determine the court of the Garda investigation into both deaths.” Meath Dog Shelter, where Kate volunteered her services, paid tribute to her and her baby son Vincent.
A spokesperson for the animal rescue said: “We are deeply saddened to hear the news of the loss of Kate and her son. Kate volunteered her services to any dog that needed help anywhere in Ireland.
“She often groomed dogs for us that were badly in need and helped us to find homes for dogs too. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family, her friends and those in the community affected by her passing.”
Former Solidarity TD for Dublin West, Ruth Coppinger also expressed her sympathy to the woman’s family and friends. Taking to social media, Ms Coppinger wrote: “Absolutely heartbreaking.
“On top of the trauma in Donegal, I have just heard about this tragedy in my own local area where a woman and baby have been found dead in Beechfield, Clonee.
“Solidarity and sympathy for their family and friends.” Other social media users expressed their shock at the news.
One Facebook user wrote: “Another tragic story,” while another wrote: “So much sorrow and pain, God love this mother and her baby. Rest in peace.”
If you have been affected by this story, you can call the Samaritans on 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.ie
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