Man found dead and wife seriously injured in Kilkeel following attack
Detectives from the Police Service of Northern Ireland’s Major Investigation Team have launched a murder investigation on Thursday 21st March, following the death of a man aged in his sixties in Kilkeel.
The murder has been widely condemned and the community is shocked.
Detective Chief Inspector Anthony Kelly said: “Police received a report of a concern for safety for a couple at a property in the Newcastle Road area of the town shortly after 12.50pm on Thursday.
“On arrival, officers located the body of a man who was unconscious and not breathing. A woman, aged in her 60s, was also inside the house with serious head injuries.
“Medical treatment was provided to the woman at the scene – and she has since been taken to hospital for treatment to her injuries. She remains in a stable condition at this time. The man was sadly pronounced deceased at the scene.
“At approximately 2pm, officers detained and arrested a 25-year-old man on suspicion of murder and attempted murder. He remains in custody at this time, assisting officers with their enquiries.
“Enquires remain ongoing in order to determine exactly what has happened. However, at this time, we are not treating this as a firearms-related report.”
Newry Mourne and Down Chief Inspector Lynne Corbett said: “We understand the Kilkeel and wider Mourne community will feel both shocked and saddened by what has happened today.
“Our thoughts are with the family as they struggle to come to terms with what has happened, and they have our full sympathy at this time.
“Please be reassured that our officers will be doing everything in their power to conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding what has happened, and we would urge members of the public not to speculate.
“Cordons remain in place this evening as our enquiries continue. I am appealing to anyone who believes they may have information which could assist us with our investigation to contact us on 101 quoting reference 739 21/03/24.”
Alternatively, information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 which is 100% anonymous and gives people the power to speak up and stop crime.
Hazzard expresses condolences at death of man in Kilkeel
Sinn Féin MP Chris Hazzard has expressed his condolences to the family of a man who died yesterday in Kilkeel.
The South Down MP said: “I want to express my condolences with the family and friends of the man who lost his life yesterday.
“My thoughts are also with his wife who is currently recovering in hospital and is thankfully in a stable condition.
“The whole community is shocked and deeply saddened. I have no doubt they will rally around to support the family in what will be difficult days ahead.
“I would encourage anyone with information to bring it forward to the police to assist with inquiries.”
McGrath says community devastated following Kilkeel murder
SDLP South Down MLA Colin McGrath has said the entire community has been left shocked and devastated following a murder in Kilkeel.
Bobby McKee was found at his home on Thursday, while his wife Yvonne has also suffered serious injuries.
South Down MLA Mr McGrath said: “This news is simply horrific and my thoughts and prayers are with the McKee family and their wider circle, particularly Yvonne as we hope she makes a full and quick recovery from her injuries.
“People right across this area have been left shocked and devastated by what has taken place here, many in Kilkeel can’t believe what has happened in their community.
“I trust that the spirit of fellowship and support across Mourne will sustain locals to do all that they can to help those who have been impacted.
“This is a close knit community who will take some time to come to terms with this incident which has left a dark cloud over the area.
“I would urge anyone with any information about what happened here to come forward to police and help them with their investigation.”
