Courts / Dublin / Report
Stardust survivor later took own life, inquest hears
Summary
The inquest heard that Julie McDonnell survived the Stardust fire but committed suicide the day before she was to receive state compensation and start a new life abroad. Her niece Pamela McDonnell recounted that Julie had been planning a 21st‑birthday party, but after the blaze the family had to arrange a funeral. Julie and her sister Lorraine were close, sharing a bedroom and activities. Julie had returned to the fire to search for Lorraine, who was later taken to hospital. The family described the chaos and the lasting guilt felt by younger sister Paula. Lorraine, unable to find work in Ireland, applied for jobs abroad and was offered compensation, but she killed herself the night before receiving it. The account also mentioned other family members who suffered long‑term health issues after the fire.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: Stardust survivor later took own life, inquest hears. Procedural stage: hearing_or_decision
When:
- February 13 Other
- December 2020 Other
- December 2021 Other
- 2023-05-12 Publication
Places mentioned
- Beaumont hospital
Topics
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