LATEST - Ballycastle murder victim named

48 year old Anthony McErlain was found dead at a house in Broombeg View at around 8.30pm.

Senior Investigating officer Detective Chief Inspector Gareth Talbot said: “While we are awaiting the results of a post mortem, what is clear is that Mr McErlain suffered a traumatic and frightening death. I initially described this killing as a heinous crime and I stand by that assessment.

“We have arrested one man, a 33 year old, on suspicion of murder and he remains in custody assisting us with our enquiries.

“The investigation team is extremely keen to speak to witnesses or anyone who may have spoken to Mr McErlain over recent days. We would especially like to hear from anyone who was in the Broombeg area at any time between 5pm and 8.30pm yesterday and who may have witnessed or overheard an altercation or disturbance, in or around number 4 Broombeg View.

The investigation team can be contacted on 101. Or if someone would prefer to provide information without giving their details they can call the Crimestoppers charity anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

Cllr Cara McShane said that the community in Ballycastle were shocked at the “gruesome and brutal nature” of the murder.

She added that her thoughts were with the victim’s family who come from across north Antrim and are very well known.

Sinn Féin MLA Daithí McKay has said that the murder of a man in Ballycastle has left the entire town in shock.

Mr McKay said: “After speaking to local people this morning it is clear that the victim was well known and well liked in the town.

“That makes this crime all the more senseless. Our thoughts and the thoughts of the entire community are with the family at this very difficult time.

“This was a particularly brutal murder and anyone with any information should not hesitate in bringing this forward to the PSNI.”