A DAD became disorientated and wandered off from his group before mysteriously being found dead in Magaluf, it is understood.
Irish tourist Michael Grant, 45, spent the day by the pool and partying before he was found unresponsive near the notorious Punta Ballena strip in the Spanish tourist hotspot.
Investigators fear he may have been attacked and hit by a car.
The dad-of-four had bike marks on his arm and shoulder as well as a deep wound with glass in when he was found in the early hours of Monday.
A pre-autopsy examination also revealed youth football coach Michael had leg injuries that could have been caused by a car.
Investigators initially feared Michael had suffered a heart attack.
He was on holiday with his wife Leanne, their four children, and other families when he became separated from the group.
Michael spent the afternoon drinking by his hotel pool before going out partying.
He became disorientated and took a wrong turn, it is understood.
The physiotherapist from Waterford was then found unresponsive on Martin Ros Garcia street at about 4.30am.
Attempts to revive him were unsuccessful, and he was identified by his hotel wristband and also by the tattooed names of his wife and children on his back.
It is feared Michael may have been attacked by a motorist who then ran him over.
A source close to the ongoing inquiry said: “The initial suggestion was that this man’s death could have been linked to what he had consumed before he died.
“But a prior examination of his body ahead of the full autopsy has thrown up some surprises and given investigators cause for concern.
“Injuries on Mr Grant’s leg are consistent with him being run over by a car.
“They don’t appear on the face of it to be life-threatening but they have opened up the possibility his death might not be an accident.”
Investigators don’t know at this stage whether the bite marks are connected to Michael’s death.
Investigators are waiting for the results of the full autopsy.
CCTV footage from the area Michael collapsed is now being called in as detectives probe what caused his death.
If Michael was hit, officers want to track down the driver.
They will also establish whether the pair had a confrontation that may explain some of his injuries.
Michael’s family and friends in Spain are set to be questioned as part of the probe.
The source added: “[They will be questioned to see if they can shed any light on what happened and help investigators build up a detailed picture of the last hours of his life.”
Michael was part of a group of families staying at the four-star Sol Katmandu Park and Resort in Magaluf, which describes itself online as a popular hotel for families with young children.
He has been hailed as a “dear friend” in an emotional tribute shared by St Joseph’s AFC Waterford football club, where Michael was a coach.
It said: “As many of you know, Michael was more than just a coach to us – he was a beloved friend and as a club and for his family we need time to process this devastating loss.
“Michael was an integral part of our community, and his absence will be profoundly felt.
“He was not just a coach but a mentor and a friend to all the children and adult members at St Joseph’s.
“More recently his dedication, passion, and love for the kids were evident in everything he did.
“He cherished every one of them, and I’m sure you will all agree that his impact was immeasurable.
“Michael, sleep well, dear friend. You will be missed forever, but your legacy and the love you shared will never be forgotten and will always live on in our club.”
Dozens of people have also shared their condolences, calling Michael’s death “incredibly sad”.
One well-wisher said: “Sincere sympathy to Michael’s family and all his friends and clubmates in St Joseph’s FC. Michael was a fantastic friend who made you feel good after chatting to him.
“He will be sadly missed by all.”
Another wrote: “RIP pal, the laughs and messing we did in and out of school will never be forgotten.
“Thoughts are with your family at this difficult time. You will be missed but not forgotten.”
