Appeal after 'disgraceful' damage to tributes for Larne teenager

Gracie Leigh Gordon, who was 14, died in November last year after accidentally falling into the Inver River.

A major search and rescue operation took place in an effort to save the St Killian's College pupil, but she sadly passed away in hospital.

Writing on the PSNI Larne Facebook page, Sergeant McIlroy said: "Last November, our town was shaken by the tragic, sudden death of young Gracie Leigh Gordon.

"Gracie Leigh’s friends and family have gone through so much in the last five months and the pain of missing her is only dimmed by the thoughts and memories of the many good times they shared with Gracie Leigh.

"This week, Gracie’s family have reported to us that some of the flowers, a hand-made wreath and photos placed beside the Inver River in memory of Gracie Leigh have been damaged and removed.

"I don’t understand why anyone would do this.

If you have any information that could help us identify and speak to those who are responsible please ring us on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111

Our reference number is 573 16/04/20."

The news was met with anger on social media, with large numbers branding the theft as "disgusting" and "disgraceful".

Gracie Leigh’s mother, Danielle Gordon, thanked members of Constable Anderson Memorial Flute Band and others who provided new floral tributes at Inver River.

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