A shocking tragedy has unfolded in Glenbeigh, Co Kerry, where a married couple were discovered dead in their home after what is believed to be a planned personal tragedy. The couple, identified as David Byrne (50) and Hazel Byrne (51), are thought to have succumbed to carbon monoxide poisoning sometime before Christmas 2024.

Authorities are awaiting post-mortem results, but Gardaí do not believe any third party was involved in their deaths.

Concern Grows as Couple Hadn’t Been Seen for Months

The discovery was made on Tuesday, 4th February 2025, when neighbours raised the alarm after realising the couple had not been seen in months.

According to locals, David and Hazel were quiet and private people, occasionally spotted at the local post office or taking walks along the beach. However, by early February, their prolonged absence led concerned residents to check on their home.

Upon arriving at the house, neighbours reportedly found a note, leading them to immediately contact Gardaí. Officers who responded to the scene found both David and Hazel deceased.

A Suspected Carbon Monoxide Tragedy

Early indications suggest that carbon monoxide poisoning may have caused the couple’s tragic deaths. Gardaí suspect it was a deliberate act, though the final confirmation is pending post-mortem results.

A Garda spokesperson stated:
“The scene remains preserved at this time and an examination by the Garda Technical Bureau will take place. The Coroner and the office of the State Pathologist have been notified.”

The exact circumstances surrounding the deaths remain under investigation, but initial reports indicate that David and Hazel may have been deceased since late 2024.

A Community in Shock

The tight-knit community of Glenbeigh is struggling to come to terms with the tragic loss. Many locals barely knew the couple, making the revelation even more shocking.

Local TD Michael Cahill expressed his devastation, saying:
“The parish is in shock. Very few seem to know about these people, which makes it even more heartbreaking.”

Similarly, local councillor Tommy Cahill described the situation as deeply distressing:

“The whole community is in a state of shock. We’ve never had news like this before, and there is a very somber mood in the area.”

The tragedy has left residents reflecting on the importance of community connections, with many wishing they had known more about the couple before this heartbreaking event.

The Risks of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a deadly, colourless, and odourless gas that can quickly overcome victims without them realising. In many cases, symptoms mimic the flu, leading people to fall asleep and never wake up.

Experts stress the importance of carbon monoxide alarms in every household. When gas appliances malfunction or poor ventilation allows CO to accumulate, the results can be fatal.

Common symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include:

• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Confusion
• Loss of consciousness

Authorities urge the public to install CO detectors and check heating systems regularly to prevent tragedies like this.

What Happens Next?

Gardaí have confirmed that:

• A technical examination will be conducted by the Garda Technical Bureau
• The bodies will be removed for post-mortem examinations
• Post-mortem results will determine the exact cause of death

Until the final autopsy results are confirmed, Gardaí will continue to investigate all possibilities.

A Reminder of Hidden Struggles

While this tragedy has shocked the community, it has also sparked discussions about the importance of checking in on neighbours.

Mental health and social isolation remain significant issues, particularly for middle-aged and older adults. When individuals withdraw from social interaction, they can become invisible to the community, often struggling in silence.

A local resident shared:
“It’s heartbreaking to think they were struggling and nobody knew. It makes you wonder who else might be feeling the same way.”

Final Thoughts

The deaths of David and Hazel Byrne are a terrible reminder of the silent battles people face. While carbon monoxide poisoning appears to be the cause, the deeper tragedy is the isolation and loneliness that surrounded them.

The Glenbeigh community mourns, and many are left wondering if this tragedy could have been prevented.

Authorities continue to urge people to:

• Check on elderly or isolated neighbours
• Install carbon monoxide detectors
• Reach out for help when struggling

As the investigation continues, one thing remains certain: this devastating loss will never be forgotten.

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