Detectives have launched a murder investigation after the body of a homeless man was discovered at the Phoenix Park in the early hours of Friday morning.
The body of the man was found in a sleeping bag which was engulfed in flames.
This afternoon state pathologist Marie Cassidy carried out a post-mortem examination, and although the results have not been released, the Gardaí are now treating the incident as a murder investigation.
The discovery was made around 1am near the Wellington monument in Phoenix Park, Dublin.
Due to the extent of the damage to the man’s body he is not able to be identified.
Speaking to the Irish Independent this evening Superintendent Dave Taylor appealed for any member of the public who may have been in the vicinity between 4pm on Thursday and 1am this morning.
“The Gardaí assisted by the Dublin Fire Brigade assisted this man. Unfortunately due to the nature and intensity of the fire this man died at the scene.
“The area was immediately sealed off for a full technical examination and the office of the state pathologist was notified.
“I’m also appealing to any person who may have a friend, relative or associate who is homeless or has that lifestyle and haven’t seen that person in the last 24hours, would they come forward to us at Cabra Garda station.”
“We do understand that people have a lifestyle that they may be uncomfortable coming to An Garda Siochana but I can assure you any information that you may have will be treated in the strictest of confidence.”
Gardaí in the area are appealing for any witnesses to contact Cabra Garda station on 01- 6667400 or the Garda Confidential Telephone Line on 1800 666 111.
