The quiet residential streets of Heathfield estate in Finglas, Dublin, were thrown into turmoil this past weekend after the bodies of a five-year-old girl and her father were discovered in what Gardaí suspect to be a murder-suicide. The tragedy unfolded on Saturday, September 27, 2025, around 8pm, when emergency services and Gardaí responded to a distress call at a home in the Cappagh area of Finglas. The scene they encountered was harrowing: the lifeless bodies of Julia Daczkowska, a senior infants pupil, and her father, 50-year-old Krzysztof, both originally from Poland, were found inside the house.
According to The Irish Sun, it was Julia’s mother who made the grim discovery upon returning home that evening. The shock and heartbreak she faced in that moment are hard to fathom, and her anguish has reverberated throughout the local community and beyond. Neighbors and local officials have expressed their deep sorrow and disbelief at the loss, describing the area as close-knit and peaceful, with many young families living nearby.
Gardaí were quick to seal off the home, preserving the site for a thorough forensic examination conducted by the Garda Technical Bureau. Investigators combed not only the house but also the surrounding gardens and property, searching for any clues that might shed light on the circumstances leading up to the deaths. The bodies of Julia and Krzysztof were removed from the scene by ambulance around midday on Sunday, September 28, with post-mortem examinations scheduled to determine the exact cause of death.
While the investigation remains at an early stage, authorities have been careful to keep an open mind about the case. However, they have stated that there were no signs of forced entry or evidence suggesting the involvement of a third party. As reported by The Irish Sun, Gardaí believe that Julia was smothered by her father, who then took his own life. A source told the newspaper, “It is a shocking case. Early indications are that the child was smothered. But the post-mortem will establish the exact cause of death.”
The deaths are being treated as suspicious, particularly in relation to the young girl. Gardaí have emphasized that the results of the autopsies “will assist Gardai in determining the course of the investigation.” The Coroner was promptly notified, and the services of the Office of the State Pathologist have been requested to aid in the inquiry. An incident room under a senior investigating officer has been established, and a family liaison officer has been appointed to support the grieving relatives during this unimaginably difficult time.
In statements to the press, Gardaí reiterated their commitment to investigating “all the circumstances surrounding the discovery of two bodies at a domestic residence in Finglas, Dublin.” They are urging anyone with information, no matter how minor it may seem, to come forward and assist with the ongoing investigation.
The news of the tragedy has sent shockwaves throughout Heathfield and the wider Finglas community. Local Sinn Féin TD Dessie Ellis described the area as “a really good area, most of the estate are private houses and they’re lovely houses. A lot of people settled in there who were originally from Finglas and other areas. It is really horrific.” His words capture the disbelief and sorrow felt by many residents, who are struggling to process the loss of a young child and her father under such tragic circumstances.
Fianna Fáil councillor Keith Connolly also spoke to The Irish Sun, highlighting the residential nature of Heathfield and the impact the incident would have on those living there. “The estate was built in the last 15 years, directly across from the Cappagh hospital so it’s very residential with a lot of young families. Supports will be needed in terms of those involved and for the wider community.” His call for support underscores the importance of community solidarity and mental health resources in the aftermath of such events.
Both local officials and Gardaí have acknowledged the need for sensitivity and care as the investigation proceeds. The family, believed to have Polish roots, had been living in the area for some time, and their loss is felt not only by neighbors but also by the broader Polish community in Dublin. The incident has prompted discussions about the pressures families may face and the importance of accessible support systems for mental health and wellbeing.
As the investigation unfolds, Gardaí are maintaining a meticulous approach, preserving all potential evidence and awaiting the results of the post-mortem examinations. The absence of any signs of a break-in or third-party involvement has led investigators to focus on the possibility of a murder-suicide, but they remain open to all possibilities until the forensic and pathological findings are complete.
According to The Irish Sun, Gardaí stated, “We are investigating all the circumstances surrounding the discovery of two bodies at a domestic residence in Finglas, Dublin.” This careful, methodical approach is intended to ensure that no detail is overlooked and that the full truth of what happened is brought to light.
For the local community, the deaths of Julia and Krzysztof have left a deep sense of loss. Parents are hugging their children a little tighter, and neighbors are coming together to support one another. The tragedy has also sparked conversations about the importance of vigilance and compassion, especially when it comes to recognizing signs of distress or crisis in those around us.
While the full details of what led to this devastating event may not be known for some time, the response from Gardaí, local officials, and the community has been marked by empathy and a determination to provide support where it is needed most. As the investigation continues, many are left reflecting on the fragility of life and the importance of reaching out to those who may be struggling, even when all seems well on the surface.
In the days and weeks ahead, the results of the post-mortem examinations and the ongoing Garda investigation will provide further clarity. For now, Heathfield estate mourns the loss of two of its own, and the city of Dublin stands in solidarity with a family and community forever changed by tragedy.
