A well-known Irish property developer has died in a suspected suicide.

According to police, Patrick Rocca, 42, sustained a single, fatal gun shot wound to the head.

Mr Rocca's body was found close to his Dublin home.

The wealthy developer, believed to be worth in the region of £460m in 2007, owned Accorp Properties.

The Rocca family sold-off its prominent tile company in 2000, retaining a 20% stake in the business.

However, a receiver was appointed to Rocca Tiles and sister company Tilebusters in 2002.

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Mr Rocca later moved into property investment.

At the height of the Celtic Tiger era Mr Rocca's firm reportedly completed 20 UK deals, valued at around £300m.

Gardaí at Blanchardstown are investigating the circumstances surrounding his death, although it is not thought he died in suspicious circumstances.

Tributes have been paid to Mr Rocca's life, among those wishing to express their disbelief at the news was Uri Geller.

He said: "I am utterly shocked and devastated at the news that Patrick is dead. He was a dedicated friend who loved helping others. He was an amazing family man who loved his wife and his kids very much.

"I always thought he had everything he wanted in life - love, happiness and money.

"He had so much going for him. It is a huge blow that he is not with us any more. I am speechless."

(PR/BMcC)