AN Iriahman has been murdered in a popular tourist resort in Turkey.
The body of John Donnelly (64), who was from Dublin, was found on the floor of his apartment in the coastal town of Bodrum on Friday morning.
Bodrum, in the west of Turkey, is a highly popular resort with thousands of Irish visitors each year.
Turkish police said that Mr Donnelly had died from a single stab wound to his back and indicated that a robbery had taken place, adding that his apartment had been ransacked and a bloodied knife had been found by neighbours outside the building.
Police also said CCTV footage showed two men leaving Mr Donnelly's apartment building during the night.
There is no suggestion of any political or religious motive and Islamist involvement is not being considered.
Mr Donnelly, who is understood to have been single, had worked for the Customs Service in the Republic up until his retirement.
He was a well-known amateur musical director with connections to the Wexford Light Opera and other musical societies.
Colm Moules, president of the Association of Irish Musical Societies, told The Irish Independent: "John was really admired and loved for his work, particularly with Wexford Light Opera, and many other societies that he helped.
"He had a great sharp wit as well. It's fair to say he will be missed by friends from the four corners of Ireland."
Neighbours claimed Mr Donnelly had only arrived in the apartment three weeks ago.
Colin Bell, from the Kevin Bell Repatration Trust, told The Irish News that he was expecting to assist in the return of Mr Donnelly's body to Ireland.
Mr Bell said: "As of yet, nobody has been in contact but we are expecting to help.
"There is a police investigation and that can present obstacles for the body getting home.
"In other circumstances you would hope to have the body home within five to seven days," he added.
