Body Found on Millisle Beach Sparks Police Investigation

Introduction

A shocking discovery was made on a quiet beach in Millisle, Co Down, when a body was found by a dog walker on May 21. The incident has prompted a major response from emergency services, including the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), forensic teams, and the Coastguard.

Details of the Incident

Authorities were called to the Donaghadee Road area of Millisle after the alarming report of a body being discovered below the road on the beach. In response, police cordoned off the area, advising the public to steer clear while they conducted their investigation.

A PSNI spokesperson confirmed, "Police are currently in attendance after a body was found on the beach in the Donaghadee Road area of Millisle today. Cordons are in place, and the public is asked to avoid the area." Images from the scene showed police officers equipped with forensic gear attending to the body.

Community Reaction

The news has sent shockwaves through the local community. Pete Wray, a councillor for the Ulster Unionist Party (UUP) representing Ards Peninsula in the Ards and North Down Borough Council, remarked, "Sadly I can confirm that a body has been found on Millisle beach this afternoon. Initial reports indicate the body has been brought in from the sea. My thoughts and prayers are with the family who will be impacted by this and the individual who found the body."

Similarly, North Down DUP MLA Stephen Dunne expressed his dismay, stating, "I was shocked by the news that a body had been discovered on a quiet beach in Millisle. Millisle is a tight-knit community, and there is understandably a great deal of concern locally after what has been a distressing week for the village." Dunne also urged the public to allow police the necessary space and time to conduct their investigation without speculation.

Previous Incidents in the Area

This tragic discovery comes just days after another unsettling event when two individuals were hospitalized due to a car being driven into a crowd outside a pub. The PSNI reported the incident occurring late on the night of May 17, describing the victims' injuries as serious. A suspect was apprehended and later released on bail, further intensifying the community’s distress.

Investigation Updates

In the aftermath of finding the body, officials indicated that a post-mortem examination and formal identification would be carried out. "We will update in due course," stated a PSNI representative. As the investigation unfolds, it remains crucial for the community and the public to exercise patience and refrain from spreading possibly harmful speculation.

Conclusion

The discovery of the body has undeniably struck a chord in the Millisle community, prompting not only a police investigation but also a wave of concern among its residents. As more details emerge, the priority remains to respect the family affected during this distressing time and allow law enforcement to do their work.