Tributes paid to brothers in their 80s who died in Sligo house fire

Sean Ryan

Tributes have been paid to two brothers in their 80s who died following a house fire near Easkey, Co Sligo.

The two men have been named as brothers Pa and Seamus Cuffe. The men lived together in the family home in Rathlee, between Easkey and the seaside town of Enniscrone.

At around 11am on Sunday, gardaí and emergency services were alerted to the fire that occurred overnight. The two men were pronounced dead at the scene. No other injuries were reported. The bodies of Pa and Seamus Cuffe were removed from the scene on Sunday evening and were taken to Sligo University Hospital where post-mortem examinations will take place.

Gardaí said the outcome of the post-mortem examinations will determine the course of their investigation. The scene has been preserved for a technical examination.

Locals said the two brothers were absolute gentlemen and very highly thought of in the community. Local Councillor Thomas Walsh (FG) said ‘’Very sad news. Sympathies to the family and the local community. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a n-anamacha’’.

Paying tribute, one neighbour Bernie Coggins said he grew up with the brothers. "They used to go to the mart every week, every Tuesday. They were in good health and Seamus just had his cataracts done a few months ago. It's awful sad. They were a big part of our local community," he said.

No other injuries were reported, and gardaí say that at this stage there is nothing to suggest foul play.

Anyone with information is asked to come forward.