An investigation has been launched after a homeless man was found dead in the campus of UCD.
The 71-year-old was known to use the grounds of the college for over 20 years.
The body of Michael Byrne was discovered in the Belfield campus shortly after midday yesterday.
He was known by students as 'Old Man Belfield' and has been described as a part of the fabric of University College Dublin.
Michael Byrne, affectionately known as “Old Man Belfield” by students and staff, sadly passed away on Monday 11 January 2021.
A fiercely private person, we thank those of you who quietly looked out for Michael.
We will miss him around the campus.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam. pic.twitter.com/3Dnbdjyssf— University College Dublin (@ucddublin) January 11, 2021
Lecturer and Assistant Professor at UCD, Orla Hegarty says staff and students will have many happy memories of Mr Byrne:
"He was a very gentle soul, he never intruded on anybody. A lot of people will be remembering him very fondly today."
There are calls for a mural or plaque to be erected in his memory.
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Co Editor of the College Tribune, Luke Murphy says he was a unique character:
"He's a legend around Belfield. When you were coming in as a first year everyone would tell you about the homeless man old man Belfield and how lovely he was and to keep an eye out for him and to say hi if you get the chance."
Services Manager with Focus Ireland Adrian Quinn, says he knew Michael for many years:
"There should have been more done a long time ago, Michael is at he end of a long time of not getting the right interventions."
Gardaí say the results of a post mortem will determine the course of their investigation.
Photo: @ucddublin
