Gardaí are awaiting results of DNA tests to identify a man whose body was found in his home in north Dublin on Sunday.
The body of the man, who was in his early 40s and lived alone, was found in his home on Glendhu Road, Cabra, Dublin 7 by a family member who became concerned that efforts to contact him had failed.
A murder inquiry was launched on Monday after a post mortem found he had met with foul play.
Gardaí believe the man, who was named locally as Kevin Molloy, had been dead for a number of days. As a result, DNA tests are being carried out to formally identify him.
The body was found at the bottom of stairs, leading to an initial belief that he may have died in a fall.
However a post mortem examination carried out by State Pathologist Prof Marie Cassidy on Monday found he died of blunt force trauma to the head.
Gardaí, who are trying to establish a motive for his murder, believe he was beaten with a weapon.
While a lock was broken on the hall door, it was unclear if that damage was done by family members trying to enter the property or if it had occurred at an earlier date.
The dead man was quiet and not well known in the area, Gardaí said.
The scene at the house remains preserved for technical examination.
In a statement on Monday night Gardaí said: “A post mortem was carried out earlier today, 2nd February 2015 at Dublin City Morgue by the State Pathologist, Professor Marie Cassidy, the results of which are not being disclosed for operational purposes.
Further tests are ongoing in connection with the post mortem. An incident room has been established at Cabra Garda Station”.
Gardaí are appealing for anyone with information to contact Cabra Garda Station on 01 6667400, The Garda Confidential Line 1800 666111 or any Garda Station.
