Gardaí investigate death of man following house fire in Slane

Gardaí are investigating the death of a man in his 70s following a fire at a private residence in Slane on Christmas Eve.

On Wednesday, December 24th, Gardaí and emergency services responded to reports of the discovery of a body at a property in the area.

The man was pronounced dead at the scene.

His body was conveyed to the mortuary at Our Lady’s Hospital, Navan, where a post-mortem examination took place.

Gardaí have confirmed that the Coroner for Co Meath has been notified and a file is being prepared.

The deceased has been identified locally as Matthew (Matsie) McConnon of Bryanstown, Kells Road, Slane.

Mr McConnon was well known in the local community. He worked for many years as a dental technician at McDonagh’s Dental Practice in Navan and was a lifelong member of Stackallen Pitch and Putt Club, where tributes have been paid following his death.

Gardaí say investigations into the circumstances of the death are ongoing.

Funeral arrangements for the deceased have been announced, with removal to St Louis and St Mary’s Church, Rathkenny, on this evening (Friday) at 6pm. Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday at 12 noon, followed by burial in the local cemetery.