'Family facing the most devastating circumstances' after man's body discovered inside burning car in Portadown
A post-mortem is to be carried out to determine the cause of death after a man’s body was found inside a burning vehicle in Portadown on Saturday evening (August 8)
Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident which has “devastated” the local community.
Officers responded to the report of a car alight in the Harford Street area of the town around 10pm. Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service also attended the scene and extinguished the fire.
Chief Inspector Tierney added: “Ammunition Technical Officers (ATO) were also tasked to the scene to conduct relevant enquiries – we can confirm there is no risk to the public.
“Significant damage was caused to the car, as well as a number of windows smashed and scorch damage observed to a neighbouring property in the area.
“Sadly, we can confirm the body of a man was located inside the vehicle. He was pronounced deceased at the scene – and a post-mortem examination will be carried out in due course to determine the cause of death.
“The circumstances surrounding what happened are still under investigation, and enquiries are ongoing to determine the cause of the fire.
“We would appeal to anyone who was in the area and witnessed what happened to make contact with us on 101, quoting reference number 1764 08/08/26.”
A report can be submitted online using the non-emergency reporting form via https://reporting.psni.police.uk/appeals . Alternatively, Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at http://crimestoppers-uk.org/
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart, who has been liaising with the PSNI in the wake the incident, said it was “deeply tragic news” for the area.
“First and foremost, my thoughts and prayers are with the family and loved ones of the deceased. Behind this news is a family facing the most devastating circumstances, and they should be very much in our thoughts this morning,” said the DUP representative.
"A police cordon remains in place and the circumstances surrounding the man’s death are not yet known. It is extremely important that the PSNI are given the time and space necessary to carry out a full and thorough investigation.
"I have been liaising with the PSNI in relation to this tragic incident and will remain in contact as their investigation progresses.
"I would appeal to everyone to please avoid speculation on social media, particularly around the identity of the deceased or the circumstances surrounding what has happened. Speculation helps no one and can cause enormous additional distress to a family at an already incredibly difficult time.
“Anyone who witnessed anything or has information which may assist the investigation should please come forward to the PSNI.
Ms Lockhart went on to commend the police, firefighters and all emergency personnel who responded to what will have been an extremely difficult scene.
She added: "A very sad morning for Portadown. My thoughts and prayers remain with the family and all those impacted.”
Upper Bann MLA Eóin Tennyson has expressed his condolences too.
In a statement on Sunday (August 9), the Alliance representative said: “This morning we have woken up to devastating news in Portadown. My thoughts are first and foremost with the family and loved ones of the deceased at this incredibly difficult time.
“I would urge everyone to give the police the space they need to carry out their investigations and, importantly, to refrain from speculation out of respect for the family.
“If anyone has information that may assist the police with their investigation, I would encourage them to come forward.”