Tributes paid to William Davey after body is formally identified

Police have confirmed today that the body discovered in the Exchange Road area of Larne on November 4 has been formally identified as 21-year-old William.

A post mortem examination took place this morning (Thursday November 5) and police have stated that there are “no suspicious circumstances surrounding his death.”

William went missing on Saturday October 31 after visiting a bar in the Lower Cross Street area of the town.

On social media, management and staff at Pound Street store Torbitts Limited, where William worked, described him as a “great worker, friend, and breath of fresh air in our shop that can never be replaced.”

The post read: “The management & staff of Torbitts Limited, with heavy hearts are sad to learn of the death of our beloved employee and friend William Davey.

“No words can express how sad we feel about his tragic loss.

“From the bottom of our hearts, we thank all who shared the post in a desperate attempt to find him and bring him home to his loving family.

“At this time - we ask that you pray for his family, and for God to give them the strength to cope with this awful news. Rest easy young man.”

Scores of local people responded to the post with their own messages of sympathy for the bereaved family.

William’s former teacher at Larne High School, Diana MacDougall, commented: “A lovely post for a lovely young man.

“William was a pupil of mine at Larne High School and he was much loved.

“Thoughts are with you all, family, friends and colleagues.”

Driving instructor Adrian George added: “One of the nicest guys I ever had the pleasure of teaching.

“So sad, hard to get my head around this tragedy.

“My thoughts and prayers are with the family and those whose lives William touched.

“Rest at peace Bud.”

William was also a member of the Larne Branch of the Apprentice Boys of Derry Walker Club.

Posting on social media, the club described him as a “highly esteemed brother.”

“Our thoughts and prayers go to our Past President Jimmy Davey and family circle,” stated the post.

Speaking on behalf of the Apprentice Boys of Derry Club’s Carnlough Branch, Ian Falconer commented: “I would like offer our sincere condolences to the Davey family on the sudden loss of their son and brother William. Rest in peace William. Gone too soon.”

Trevor Acheson, representing the officers and members of Cairncastle Flute Band, also passed on condolences to the Davey family circle and Larne Walker Club.