Ballymena: Girl, 8, among those found dead at house in Ballymena

Ballymena: Girl, 8, among those found dead at house in Ballymena

An eight-year-old girl was one of three family members discovered deceased in a residence in Ballymena. The family was originally from Poland, although the young girl was reportedly born in Northern Ireland. Jerome Mullen, the honorary consul of Poland in Northern Ireland, confirmed that the family had been living in the area for some time.

Following the discovery of a man, woman, and child at a house on Cullybackey Road around 9:00 a.m. BST, authorities opened a murder investigation. While the exact cause of death has yet to be determined pending post-mortem examinations, police have stated that there is no ongoing threat to the public, nor are they searching for any additional suspects in connection with the incident.

Jerome Mullen described the event as an unprecedented tragedy in his 18 years serving as honorary consul. He expressed being “absolutely shattered and devastated” by the news and emphasized the longstanding presence of the Polish community in Northern Ireland. Mullen also highlighted that the Polish consulate is fully engaged, providing assistance and support to the relatives affected by the loss.

Local reactions reflected the somber mood. Mid and East Antrim mayor Thomas Gordon voiced his sorrow, extending condolences to the families involved and urging anyone with information to come forward. Political figures across different parties, including Ulster Unionist Party leader Jon Burrows, Sinn Féin assembly member Philip McGuigan, and Alliance Party assembly member Sian Mulholland, all encouraged cooperation with the ongoing investigation and emphasized the need for sensitivity amid the community’s shock. At the scene, residents remain in a state of disbelief, with the quiet, rural location feeling particularly subdued as the police cordon remains in place

Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More