Suspect in attack on man who later died was traced after leaving passport at scene

Victim Mykola Dernovi (46), who came from Ukraine to live in Ireland a number of years ago, was discovered dead at home in Clones, Co Monaghan, on June 1.

Gardaí believe he suffered a violent assault shortly before he suffered a heart attack that led to his death.

The suspect left the scene after the alleged attack and travelled over the border in a silver car, it is understood.

But the suspect, who is from eastern Europe and is known to Mr Dernovi, left his passport in the man’s apartment.

Gardaí were able to identify the suspect, with one source saying: “We are not dealing with a criminal mastermind here.”

The suspect was arrested on June 19, but was later released without charge. Gardaí are preparing a file for the DPP. It is also understood the suspect is known to gardaí.

Mr Dernovi was living in a property in The Diamond area of Clones and died at around 10pm on June 1.

A post-mortem examination revealed he died from natural causes — a suspected heart attack — after he was assaulted.

Gardaí believe he was assaulted on the night of his death. After the assault his condition deteriorated and he died before the emergency services were alerted.

Paramedics arrived at the property on The Diamond and tried to save him but were unsuccessful.

Mr Dernovi was pronounced dead at the scene and gardaí were called in. They began an investigation, leading to the suspect’s arrest later.