Gran Canaria: Police launch investigation after Irishman found dead 'in pool of blood' at hotel on island popular with UK holidaymakers

An investigation has been launched after the death of a man at a holiday apartment in Gran Canaria. The man, named locally as Dean Dobbin from Downpatrick, Ireland, is understood to have been found dead lying dead in a pool of blood at the holiday apartment.

The man's body was found on Monday 18 March at around 12.30pm at the Colina Mar complex in the resort of Puerto Rico in the municipality of Mogan in the south of the island. It is believed the man sustained injuries to his head and Spanish police sources say "there were signs of violence".

Initially, reports suggested that the victim was British, but this has now been corrected, with police sources confirming he was Irish. An autopsy was scheduled to be carried out on Wednesday (20 March).

A cleaner raised the alarm after finding the man's body when she tried to enter the apartment. A male friend he is believed to have travelled to the island with was also in the room when police arrived.. The man was pronounced dead at the scene despite the efforts of paramedics to revive him.

In connection to the incident, a Civil Guard source said: "There were signs of violence but the autopsy results are still pending." SDLP South Down MLA Colin McGrath has sent his heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the young man.

He said: "I'd like to offer my thoughts and prayers to the family and friends of the young man from Downpatrick who has tragically been found dead in Gran Canaria. This will come as devastating news and will be compounded by the difficulty of it happening overseas. It is never easy to lose a loved one, but to see a young life cut short in such circumstances is unimaginable."

Mr. McGrath added: "I understand that an investigation is underway into the circumstances of the man's death and the family must be kept updated at this difficult time and receive the necessary help and support."

"I hope that he can be returned to Downpatrick as soon as possible so his family can lay him to rest. I know that people in this area will rally around the family as they come to terms with their loss and my heart goes out to them."

On its website, Jet2 Holidays describes the complex as: "Colina Mar Apartments enjoy spectacular views of the valley and sparkling sea in the distance. This is the ideal base for those looking to chill out and enjoy the sunshine."

"Guests will enjoy the simple and cheerful apartments and lovely pool area as well as the entertainment programme and proximity to many shops, restaurants and bars at the Europa Commercial Centre. Great for couples and families, the little ones will enjoy the children's club and playground while the adults will enjoy the friendly service and peaceful and relaxed atmosphere."