Los Angeles Galaxy and Republic of Ireland striker Robbie Keane learned today that his cousin Stephen Harris has died, just over 24 hours after his brother Alan suffered the same fate.
Alan, 45, passed away on Wednesday as a result of alleged gas poisoning, while his brother Stephen was sent to hospital in critical condition.
Keane took to Facebook to pay tribute to his family member and sent prayers to Stephen, 34, in hospital, but tragically, both cousins have now been confirmed dead.
The pair were working on a broken pipe six metres underground at an upmarket estate in Portmarnock, North County Dublin when they were both knocked unconscious due to the fumes.
A Garda spokesman is quoted by the Irish Mirror as saying: "The second injured party from this incident, Stephen Harris of Monasterboice Road, Crumlin, D12 passed away at 9am this morning in Beaumont Hospital.
"The family of the late Mr Harris have requested that their privacy be respected at this time of grief. The investigations by An Garda Siochana and the Health and Safety Authority are continuing at this time. The scene of the incident is still preserved for investigation purposes."
Republic of Ireland manager Martin O'Neill told reporters today that he is leaving it up to Keane to decide whether or not to play in Saturday's Euro 2016 qualifier against Scotland in Dublin.
Danielle Joynson
