A man known as Piotr Torng, who died while homeless, has been added to Ireland’s human remains database in an ongoing effort to establish his true identity.
- The case of Piotr Torng has been uploaded to the national database, including a DNA profile and photograph.
- Ireland’s human remains database currently contains details of approximately 50 cases dating back to 1968.
- Authorities are simultaneously seeking the identity of a man who died in Cork in 2021 and a woman whose remains were found in Midleton.
Efforts to Identify Piotr Torng
The man, identified as Piotr Torng, died in St James’s Hospital following a cardiac arrest. He was later buried in the Alice Leahy Trust plot in Glasnevin.
Believed to be a Lithuanian national in his early 40s, the man had resided in Ireland for over a decade. He was known to several Dublin homeless services and had lived at the Peter McVerry Trust hostel in Stephen’s Green.
A coroner’s court heard that attempts to formally identify the man through documents and Interpol were unsuccessful. No next of kin has been located despite inquiries with the Department of Social Protection and the embassies of Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, Ukraine, and Russia.
While a DNA profile has been created and uploaded to the national database, no match has yet been found. An autopsy confirmed he died of natural causes.
Ireland’s Human Remains Database
The database of unidentified human remains was launched by the Department of Justice three years ago. It is compiled using information submitted by coroners from across the country.
The registry currently holds details for approximately 50 full or partial remains discovered across Ireland since 1968. If a DNA match is made in the case of Mr. Torng, an inquest will be held to formally confirm his identity.
Other Unidentified Cases
Similar identification efforts are underway for a man who died of natural causes at St Stephen’s Hospital in Glanmire, Cork, in September 2021. Despite DNA sampling and international interest, his identity remains unknown, and he was buried in St Finbarr’s Cemetery.
Additionally, authorities are seeking the identity of a woman whose skeletal remains were discovered on January 5, 2021, along an old railway line near the Shanty Gate at Westpark, near Midleton. The remains were found by workers developing a greenway.
Gardaí believe the woman was older than 70 at the time of her death, approximately 5ft to 5ft 2in tall, with a large frame, dentures, and arthritis. Evidence suggests she may have been previously buried before being illegally exhumed and dumped; a crucifix and other items believed to be from a coffin were found nearby.
The woman’s case remains on the database, featuring clothing found at the scene and a photofit of her likely appearance. Her remains are currently in storage.
The human remains database can be accessed at www.gov.ie/en/coroner-cases/
Discover more from Archyworldys
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
