Major probe launched after shock discovery of two bodies in Co Down home as neighbours ‘distraught’

A MAJOR probe has been launched after the discovery of two bodies at a home in Co Down.

The PSNI are at the scene of the grim find near Warrenpoint in the Newry area of Co Down, .

Detectives are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of an elderly couple at the property.

The bodies are believed to have been there for some time as the couple had not been seen by locals recently.

Police were made aware of the deceased couple's remains yesterday.

A forensics team is currently carrying out an investigation at the scene.

Locals are said to be "distraught" over the discovery.

A PSNI spokesperson said: "Detectives are investigating the circumstances surrounding the deaths of a man and a woman at a property in the Newry area.

"The deaths were reported to police on Thursday, 17th August and enquiries remain ongoing.

"There are no further details at this time and an update will be provided in due course."

SDLP councillor Declan McAteer told BBC Radio Ulster the couple had not been seen “for some time”.

He said: “It is a very tragic situation, it is very unclear. A very elderly couple have been found deceased in their own dwelling and apparently had been there for some time.

“I have spoken to some members of the local community who are saddened and totally shocked and bewildered about the situation.”

Separately, heartbreaking tributes have been paid to a young man who lost his life following a tragic motorbike crash in Tyrone yesterday. 

Ciaran Hurl, 26, from the Moortown area, sadly passed away after his motorbike collided with a lorry shortly before 6am. 

'LOSS IS IMMEASURABLE'

The local community has been left devastated by the tragic incident.

Moortown St. Malachys, where Ciaran played football as a juvenile, said: "A light in our community has gone out this morning, with news of the tragic death of Ciaran Hurl, a former youth player.

"Ciaran is the eldest son of Enda and Shauna Hurl and brother of Michelle, Aoibheann and Dara. Their loss is immeasurable, and as a club and community, we need to wrap them in love and support over the days and months ahead.

"We offer them our deepest sympathy. All club activities have been cancelled as a mark of respect! May Ciaran Rest in Peace."

Ciaran was survived by his parents, Enda and Shauna, siblings Michelle, Aoibheann and Dara, uncle of Alaya and Jayla, loving partner Lucy and grandparents Seamus and Margaret Rose.