Tributes to “gentle” man Chrissy Burns as Co Armagh murder probe continues

Following a search, involving a helicopter, a man in his 30s has been arrested

Tributes have poured in for a man found dead in Co Armagh on Thursday, where a murder investigation has now been launched.

The man has been named locally as Chrissy Burns, who was in his 40s and from Warrenpoint. He has been described as a “gentle soul” and someone with “the kindest heart”.

The body was discovered in the Cusher Green area of Mountnorris and, following a search involving a helicopter, a man in his 30s has been arrested.

READ MORE: “Massive shock” in rural Co Armagh village as murder investigation launchedREAD MORE: Forensics pictured at scene of alleged murder in Co Armagh

Police were called to the area at 11.30am on Thursday, September 4, following reports of a concern for safety at a property in the area. Upon arrival, officers say a man in his 40s was found dead at the scene with serious head and facial injuries.

A 39-year-old man has since been arrested on suspicion of murder and remained in police custody overnight.

Tributes have now poured in for the deceased Chrissy Burns, who was described as “a gentle wee soul” in one message of condolence published online, and “such a kind person, taken far too soon” in another.

In another tribute, his death was described as “devastating” and the deceased described as someone with “the kindest heart”.

TUV councillor Keith Ratcliffe said he is seeking to reassure the public following the arrest of a man in his 30s.

“My understanding is that the school was closed for a while,” he told Belfast Live. “There was a helicopter out searching and there’s now been an arrest. I want to put it out, loud and clear, that the police are not seeking anyone else in relation to this. I would say that to seek to reassure young families and the local community in the area.”

He added: “I would like to pass on my condolences and my thoughts and prayers to the family and friends of the deceased. Obviously a man has lost his life here and it’s extremely tragic.”

Detective Chief Inspector Gary Robinson, in a statement issued by the PSNI said: “Although our investigation is at an early stage, we are working at pace to establish the circumstances surrounding the man’s death and to determine exactly what happened. I would appeal to anyone who may have information that could assist us, to contact police on 101, quoting reference number 573 04/09/25.

“Alternatively, you can also submit a report or information online using the non-emergency reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/. You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org/.”

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