Paul MuscatPaul Muscat

Updated Saturday 3.15pm with new details

The ship captain and his partner discovered dead in Gozo on Friday were probably killed as a result of carbon monoxide poisoning from a gas oven, which had been lit up to keep the room warm, Times of Malta is informed. 

Paul Muscat, 59, and Diane Ainsley, a 52-year-old British woman, were found in a boathouse after they were reported missing. 

Police who broke into the room found the oven door open and switched on but its flame appeared to have been somewhat spent on the fateful night, according to sources.

The victim is believed to have often used the oven gas flame to keep the small room warm, since the building is exposed to the elements. It appears that the oven in question had no safety valve. 

The couple was found dead in bed on Friday night but police believe the incident happened on Tuesday night, which was particularly chilly.

"It looked like it was a really stupid accident, it's like they both died in their sleep," said a source.

No foul play is suspected, though a post-mortem will establish the exact cause of death. 

Mr Muscat, a father of three, and a captain on the Gozo Channel ferries from Sannat, had practically turned the boat house into his residence for the last five years.

The couple had been together for about two years. 

A magisterial inquiry is under way.

The two are believed to have died on Tuesday. Photo: Victor Paul BorgThe two are believed to have died on Tuesday. Photo: Victor Paul Borg

 

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