Rathcoole murder: Roy Reynolds named as victim, detectives granted extra time

A post-mortem examination is due to take place today (Wednesday) following the discovery of murder victim Roy Reynolds’ body in Carrickfergus on Monday.
By Valerie Martin
Published 30th Mar 2022, 07:33 BST
Updated 30th Mar 2022, 07:47 BST
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Police officially named 54-year-old Mr Reynolds last night. His body was found at North Woodburn Reservoir.

They also confirmed detectives have been granted a 30-hour extension to question two men – a 68-year-old and a 32-year-old – who were both arrested on suspicion of the murder.

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The men were arrested after officers stopped a silver vehicle just before 7am on Monday in the Clonmore Green area of Newtownabbey.

Roy Reynolds.Roy Reynolds.
Roy Reynolds.

Detective Chief Inspector Ray Phelan appealed for information from the public.

“Just before 6am on Monday morning, local officers received a report of suspicious activity in the Derrycoole Way area of Rathcoole in Newtownabbey.

“Responding officers subsequently located and stopped a silver Toyota C-HR car just before 7am in the Clonmore Green area and arrested the two male occupants.

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“The body of Mr Reynolds was discovered in the water close to the Councillors Road / New Line area of Carrickfergus just after 8.45am on Monday morning.

A large police presence pictured at a scene at Woodburn Dams in Carrickfergus on Monday. Picture: PacemakerA large police presence pictured at a scene at Woodburn Dams in Carrickfergus on Monday. Picture: Pacemaker
A large police presence pictured at a scene at Woodburn Dams in Carrickfergus on Monday. Picture: Pacemaker

“A post-mortem examination is scheduled for Wednesday.

“I am appealing for anyone who was in the area of Derrycoole Way in Rathcoole or Councillors Road / New Line area of Carrickfergus from around 2am through to 7am on Monday morning who witnessed anything or anyone with any information that can assist my investigation contact detectives on 101 quoting reference 244 of 28 March 2022.

“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.”