Heartbreaking tributes pour for ‘happy guy’ killed in horror housefire in Mayo

HEARTBREAKING tributes have poured in for a “friendly and happy guy who was killed in a horror housefire in Co Mayo on Thursday.

Dusan Ivan, who was aged in his 40s, sadly passed away in a tragic fire that occurred above the Boyle Sports on Tolan Street, Ballina. 

Fire services attended the scene and made the area safe after emergency responders arrived at around 8:15am.

Another male was conveyed to University Hospital Mayo for non-life-threatening injuries.

Dusan, originally from Presov in Slovakia, was working in security in Westport and living in Ballina.

The 40-year-old was described as “a lovely guy” by many locals, with one saying: “You had the kindest heart.”

Another one added: “Rip Dusan Ivan it’s a cruel world we love in, I hope you get best bed in heaven budd.”

Local councillor Mark Duffy described his death as “devastating news” for the local community.  

Dusan’s friend Paulina Juraszek has organised a GoFundMe page to support his family at this heartbreaking time with the funeral coats. 

She said: “I am setting up this fundraiser to help family to go through this devastating time.

“Dusan died suddenly in a tragic accident. He was friendly and happy guy. 

“I would like to help the family with all the cost of funeral etc. 

“No matter how big or small every donation will be greatly appreciated. Big condolences to all the family and friends.” 

The fundraising has so far raised over €18,000, as 436 people have donated to date. 

Gardai confirmed earlier this week that the body of a man had been located deceased in a residence in Ballina.

They said: “Gardaí received a report of a fire at a residence in Ballina. Fire services attended the scene on Tolan Street, Ballina and made the area safe.

“It is understood the fire occurred above the Boyle Sports betting shop premises.

“A male was located deceased in the residence.

“A second male has been conveyed to University Hospital Mayo for treatment for his injuries. 

“Enquiries are ongoing.”