A wave of shock has swept through the quiet seaside village of Millisle in County Down after the grim discovery of a body on the local beach.
Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) officers rushed to the scene on Wednesday afternoon following reports that a body had been found on Millisle Beach, near Donaghadee Road.
According to initial accounts, the tragic discovery was made by a local dog walker, who immediately alerted authorities.
Local Ulster Unionist Party (UUP) Councillor Pete Wray confirmed the incident via social media.
“Sadly, I can confirm that a body has been found on Millisle Beach. Initial reports indicate the body has been brought in from the sea. PSNI remain at the scene, and I would ask everyone to give them the time and space to conduct their investigation.
My thoughts and prayers are with the family who will be impacted by this and the individual who found the body,” he wrote.
Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) MLA Peter Martin also expressed his condolences and called for sensitivity.
“A police investigation is underway in Millisle following the discovery of a body on the beach. My thoughts and prayers go out to the family of the individual at this difficult time. Emergency services are on the scene and a cordon is in place to allow a full investigation to take place.
I would urge folks to avoid the Donaghadee Road area at present. We do not know further details at this time and speculation would not be helpful to potentially bereaved friends or family members,” he said.
The PSNI has since launched a formal investigation. In a statement, they confirmed the body has now been removed from the scene for further examination.
“The body found on the beach in the Donaghadee Road area of Millisle on Wednesday, May 21, has been removed from the scene. A postmortem examination and formal identification will be carried out. Will update in due course,” a PSNI spokesperson said.
The area remains cordoned off as investigations continue. Authorities are urging the public to avoid the vicinity to allow emergency personnel to carry out their work without disruption.
Residents of Millisle have expressed deep sadness and concern in the wake of the discovery. The village, known for its serene coastal beauty and close-knit community, has been left rattled by the tragic find.
While details remain scarce, the focus remains on supporting those affected and allowing space for the investigation to unfold. Updates will be shared as soon as new information becomes available.
