The Mall’s Coral Leisure complex in Longford town.
Health and Safety Authority officials have launched an investigation into the circumstances behind the death of a man in his 50s at a leisure centre in Longford town on Monday.
The alarm was raised shortly before 11am at The Mall’s Coral Leisure complex on foot of reports a 59-year-old man had been found unresponsive in the facility’s swimming pool area.
Gardaí and ambulance personnel raced to the scene in a bid to revive the stricken man. He was subsequently rushed to Mullingar’s Midland Regional Hospital where he was pronounced dead.
Garda sources believe the man suffered a medical emergency, but said much will depend on the results of a post-mortem examination as to what direction any impending investigation may take.
“Gardaí and emergency services responded to medical incident which occurred at a sports facility in Longford town today, Monday December 8 at approximately 10.40am,” said a garda spokesperson.
“A man, aged in his 50s, was taken to the Regional Hospital Mullingar where he was pronounced deceased. The Health and Safety Authority has been notified (and) the local Coroner has been informed.
“A post-mortem examination will take place in due course, the results of which will determine the course of the investigation.”
Senior bosses from Coral Leisure Longford closed the doors of its facility in the wake of Monday’s incident as HSA investigators began their own investigation into the events.
“The HSA is aware of the fatal incident and has launched an investigation,” confirmed a spokesperson this evening.
In a statement, Coral Leisure, who operate the popular leisure facility said it was “deeply saddened” by the tragedy after experiencing “difficulties in our swimming pool”.
“A doctor and advanced emergency services were on site immediately, and he was removed to hospital, where sadly he passed away,” read the statement.
“Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with his family at this incredibly difficult time.”
The company said the safety and well-being of its members remained its top priority, adding “full support” was also being given to all staff members who were on duty at the time of today’s tragedy.
A spokesperson added the leisure centre will remain closed until further notice.