Property developer found dead at home

A WELL-KNOWN property developer has been found dead at his home in Co Dublin.

The body of Patrick Rocca (42) was discovered yesterday morning at his home in Porterstown, Castleknock, before 9am.

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

Mr Rocca was a member of the prominent family that once owned Rocca Tiles. They include former Miss Ireland, Michelle Rocca.

He was involved in property in both Ireland and Britain through his company Accorp Properties, which is based in Dún Laoghaire.

He and his wife Annette were well known in social circles and contributed to many charities. The couple have three children.

During the boom years, Mr Rocca is reported to have completed about 20 property deals in the UK worth about €300 million, including €100 million for a distribution centre for retailer Argos in Bedford.

Mr Rocca was also involved in the family business Rocca Holdings, which invested in Irish, UK and international property.

It took a 12.5 per cent stake in the Cork-based publishing company Progressive News Media last year.

The Rocca family’s involvement in business in Ireland stretches back to Patrick’s grandfather, Edgidio “Nano” Rocca, who rebuilt the Four Courts after the Civil War. His son Patrick founded Rocca Tiles in 1976 and Patrick jnr later became involved in the business.

The family sold the business in 2000 but retained a 20 per cent stake.

The company closed in 2002, although Rocca Tiles still operates in Galway.