A man found dead in a laneway may have suffered fatal injuries from a metal gate.
Gardai said his body was discovered on the ground in Dalkey, Co Dublin, at about 8.30am.
It is understood a passer-by saw the dead man lying near a laneway just off Convent Road in the centre in the town.
He was 35 and worked in the local supermarket.
Gardai are investigating if the man accidentally suffered fatal injuries to his abdomen from the top of a metal gate as he attempted a shortcut between Convent Road and Coliemore Road.
A forensic tent was put up over the body while gates at the scene were covered in sheets.
Technical examinations were taking place at the scene with the State Pathologist's office notified and a post mortem expected to be ordered to confirm the cause of death.
An appeal has been issued for witnesses or anyone who was on the laneway overnight or early this morning or anyone with any information to make contact with officers in Dun Laoghaire station or any Garda contact line.
It is understood CCTV was also being examined to establish the man's movements before the incident.
Locals expressed shock at the discovery.
Fine Gael councillor John Bailey said: "I'd like to extend my sympathies and sincere condolences to the family. It's a terrible, terrible tragedy."