CULLERA, Valencia, Spain — The Irish community is mourning the tragic death of Thomasina Tobin, née McArdle, 51, a businesswoman originally from County Monaghan, who died alongside her husband, Patrick Tobin, 48, while the couple were on a family holiday in Spain.

The couple were reportedly found dead on Tuesday at a rented holiday property in the Cap Blanc residential estate in Cullera, near Valencia. Their deaths are being investigated by Spanish authorities.

Couple Found at Holiday Property

According to the information available, Thomasina and Patrick were discovered in a jacuzzi at the holiday home at approximately 5 p.m. local time.

Their two teenage children reportedly discovered their parents and alerted the property owner, who then sought assistance.

Spanish authorities initially considered the possibility of a homicide. However, investigators reportedly found no obvious signs of violence or evidence of foul play.

Local police from Cullera attended the property alongside Spain’s Civil Guard, which is leading the investigation.

Cause of Death Not Confirmed

Authorities are continuing to investigate exactly what happened.

Possible explanations reportedly being examined include an electrical incident involving the hot tub or exposure to fumes, but neither possibility has been established as the official cause of death.

At this stage, the cause and manner of death have not been officially confirmed. Investigators are expected to examine the property, equipment, environmental conditions, and other available evidence before reaching conclusions.

Remembering Thomasina McArdle

Thomasina was a member of the well-known McArdle family from Castleblayney, County Monaghan.

Her father, Tommy McArdle, is known as a playwright, actor and producer who spent many years directing RTÉ’s drama series Glenroe. He also worked alongside his brother, John McArdle, who is also a writer and actor. The brothers additionally represented Monaghan in football.

Thomasina was a Trinity College Dublin graduate and went on to establish a career as a Chartered Surveyor. She lived and worked in London for around two decades and was involved professionally with major projects, including The Ritz and The Shard.

Children Left Without Their Parents

The deaths have left Thomasina and Patrick’s two teenage children without their parents, adding another devastating dimension to the tragedy.

Three of Thomasina’s relatives reportedly travelled from Monaghan to Valencia overnight, arriving in the early hours of Wednesday to support the children while authorities continue their investigation.

The family is now facing an extraordinarily difficult period as they await further information and make arrangements following the deaths.

Thomasina will be remembered for her professional achievements, her connections to her family and community, and the relationships she built throughout her life.

Thomasina McArdle and Patrick Tobin will be deeply missed and remembered by their children, relatives, friends, colleagues, and all who had the privilege of knowing them.