Full scale garda probe following Irishtown deaths

A FULL scale garda investigation is underway following the discovery of the bodies of an elderly couple near the village of Irishtown in Co. Mayo this afternoon.

Officers rushed to the couple's home after the alarm was raised at around 3 p.m.

A third person, believed to be related to the couple, was suffering from injuries and was rushed by ambulance to University Hospital Galway.

No indication has been forthcoming as to the extent of this person's injuries.

The man who died was in his 70s while his wife was in her sixties.

Shocked neighbours tonight described the couple who died as 'generous and community minded'.

The bodies are still at the scene as gardaí begin a forensic examination.

A State pathologist is expected to carry out an examination of the bodies later.