What we know so far following murder investigation in Newcastle

The PSNI have launched a murder investigation after a man’s body was found in theSlievenabrock Avenue area of Newcastle

A murder investigation has been launched by police after the body of a man was found in Newcastle on Sunday evening.

Officers remain at the scene of the death on Slievenabrock Avenue in the Co Down seaside town, following the discovery of a man’s body at around 10.30pm on Sunday, August 24.

The death has caused shock and sadness in the community, which has been described as “close-knit” by local representatives.

Here’s a quick look at the information we have so far on the incident, and you can follow our live blog for the latest updates as they happen.

When were emergency services made aware of an incident?

Police received a report at 10.30pm on Sunday, August 24, that the body of a man had been found. The following morning on August 25, the PSNI announced a murder investigation had been launched.

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Where did the reported incident happen?

The man’s body was found in the Slievenabrock Avenue area of Newcastle. Police have not yet said whether or not the body was found inside a property or not.

What have the police said about the victim?

Police have not yet released any details about the victim except for their gender, which is male.

Has an arrest been made?

No arrests have been made.

What has the PSNI said?

Detective Chief Inspector Kerrie Foreman, from the Police Service of Northern Ireland’s Major Investigation Team, said: “We received a report at around 10.30pm on Sunday night, 24th August, that a man had been found dead in the Slievenabrock Avenue area. “We understand this news will cause shock and concern within this close-knit community of Newcastle. Local people will see our officers in and around the area – with cordons still in place today. “Our enquiries are at an early stage and I am appealing to anyone who believes they may have information which could assist us with our investigation, any dashcam or doorbell footage to contact us on 101 quoting reference number 1746 24/08/25.”

What have community representatives said?

Alliance The Mournes Councillor Jill Truesdale said the death was a “horrifying and devastating incident”.

Cllr Truesdale said: “This is a horrifying and devastating incident, and my immediate thoughts are with the family and loved ones of the victim during this unthinkably difficult time.

“The local community is shocked by this tragic loss, but I have no doubt they will unite during this incredibly challenging time.

“I encourage anyone who may have any potentially relevant information that may help police in their investigations to get in touch with them, or report it anonymously via Crimestoppers.”

Sinn Féin councillor, Willie Clarke, has expressed shock and sadness following the death of a man in Newcastle which police are investigating as murder.

The Newry, Mourne and Down councillor offered his condolences to the family of the man saying: “This is heartbreaking for all involved and our thoughts are with the loved ones of the man.

“This local, tight-knit community are in shock that a murder investigation is now underway.

“I am confident the community will rally around each other at this difficult time.

“I would stress that people should let the police carry out their investigations and not to speculate at this time.

“I would also encourage anyone who may have information to contact police to assist them in their investigation.”

SDLP South Down MLA Colin McGrath has said there is shock in the local area after a man was found dead.

South Down MLA Mr McGrath said:“The news of a man’s death in Newcastle and the subsequent murder investigation is deeply shocking and the local community are stunned to be waking up to this on a bank holiday Monday.

“For such a violent death to occur in Newcastle will understandably cause concern and I would ask people to avoid speculation and to remain calm.

“It is vital that the police are given every piece of information they need to carry out their investigation. Anyone who can assist should come forward without delay.”

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