Monaghan woman and husband died in Spain due to “suction entrapment” – autopsy confirms

Originally from Castleblaney, McArdle had been living in London with her family for years.

The couple were found in the hot tub in an exclusive resort in Cullera, now believed to be a freak accident with the jacuzzi known as "suction entrapment".

This occurs when the suction system becomes blocked, creating a vacuum that can exert a 
pulling force equivalent to 200 kilograms.

The coroner report noted Patrick's body showed wounds consistent with the shape of the jets at the bottom of the jacuzzi. While Thomasina had cuts and scratches, there is reportedly physical evidence of a desperate struggle to save her husband, and hurting herself in the process.

The couple did not drown, nor did they die from electrocution, which is common in these types of accidents and the police originally thought may have occurred.

The preliminary autopsy points to acute cardiopulmonary collapse resulting from panic and exhaustion.

The pair managed to free themselves from the water, but extreme strain caused a massive failure in their bodies.

The couple's two children, aged 14 and 16, have special needs.

They had enjoyed a family barbecue when the parents decided to relax at the spa around 3pm.

Four hours later, their son went downstairs to look for them and found them lying on the floor. 

He thought they were sleeping, and decided not to wake them or alert his sister. The siblings ate dinner alone and went to bed.

The next day when they found their parents lifeless bodies they walked into the street and eventually found someone who spoke English who alerted the police.

Family members from Monaghan have travelled to Spain to be with the children.

Ms McArdle is the daughter of Tommy McArdle, a well known director and playwright who previously worked for RTE.