TRIBUTES are pouring in for a “gentleman” who was killed in a house fire in Cavan earlier this week.
Gardai and emergency services attended the scene of the blaze near Killygowan at around 7.35pm yesterday.
Cavan Fire Brigade crews were quick to extinguish the fire, however, one man, Jim O’Brien, tragically lost his life.
The scene has since been preserved for a technical examination.
Gardai have said that the local coroner has been notified and that investigations into the incident are ongoing.
Mr O’Brien is survived by his loving son, Jack, his brothers Sean, Barry, Kieran, Damien, and Derek, and his sisters Maura, Anne, Alita, and Catriona.
Heartbreaking tributes have now begun to pour in for the “loving dad”.
One person said: “Condolences to Jims family on his tragic passing. An old workmate and a gentleman. May he rest in peace.”
Another added: “Jim was a gentleman and will be missed dearly. Another angel taken too soon, may Jim’s gentle soul rest in eternal peace.”
Many recalled fond moments that they had with Mr O’Brien over the years.
One person said: “Please accept our sincerest sympathy to Jim’s son Jack and all his family members on this tragic loss.
“I remember Jim back in Kensington, first bloke of many Cavan men to work with in London back in the late 80’s and I have many great memories of Jim’s personality and sense of fun – there was always laughter when Jim was on site – may he rest in peace.”
Another added: “Sincere condolences to Jim’s son Jack, his brothers, sisters and extended O’Brien family on the sudden passing of Jim.
“We were at Crubany school together many moons ago and he was always such a character and great fun.
“In recent years he would always stop for a little chat in Cavan town. Thoughts and prayers are with you all at this very sad time. May his gentle soul rest in peace.”
Funeral arrangements will be announced at a later date.
ONGOING ENQUIRY
In a statement yesterday, a Garda spokesperson said: “Gardai received a report of a fire at a domestic residence in the Killygowan area of Co Cavan, at around 7:35pm on 6th October, 2025.
“Local fire services attended the scene and extinguished the fire.
“The body of one person has been recovered within the extensively damaged residence.
“The scene of the fire is currently preserved for a technical examination.
“This body remains at the scene at this time.
“The office of the local coroner has been notified. Enquiries are ongoing.”
Mr O’Brien tragically lost his life in a house fire on Monday, October 6rip.ie Published: [#item_custom_pubDate]
