An eight-year-old girl, along with two other family members, was discovered dead in a suspected case of double murder-suicide in Northern Ireland. The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) revealed that the bodies of a man, woman, and young girl were found at a residence in the Old Cullybackey Road area of Ballymena on Monday.
Superintendent William Calderwood, the District Commander for Mid & East Antrim, confirmed that the deaths are being treated as a “double murder followed by a sudden death.” Police responded to the scene around 9 am and found the three deceased individuals – a 41-year-old man, a 39-year-old woman, and an eight-year-old girl – inside the house. The PSNI stated that there is no need to search for additional suspects in connection with the deaths and assured the public of no ongoing risk.
Superintendent Calderwood stated, “Upon receiving a report of a sudden death at a residence on Old Cullybackey Road around 8:50 am, officers, along with the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service, were confronted with a distressing scene. Unfortunately, the bodies of three family members were discovered within the home.”
He added, “Our thoughts are with the grieving family members and loved ones who are undoubtedly struggling to comprehend this tragic loss. Specialist support is being provided to the families of the deceased, and we are in contact with the Polish Consulate. We urge the public to refrain from speculating as we inform those outside Northern Ireland about the incident.”
“We are awaiting the results of post-mortem examinations and keeping an open mind about the circumstances. However, the prevailing theory is a double murder-suicide. Consequently, we are not actively seeking other individuals linked to the deaths at this time.”
Superintendent Calderwood reassured, “There is no immediate threat to the public. Nevertheless, there will be an increased police presence in the vicinity, with a dedicated team of detectives and local officers tirelessly working on the case. As we progress with our investigation, we will provide updates to address the public’s understandable interest in this matter.”
“The community has been deeply shocked, and we are collaborating with local representatives as we swiftly investigate the circumstances surrounding the deaths. We have personally engaged with the first responders, ensuring immediate support and ongoing trauma-focused care.”
He concluded, “We encourage anyone with relevant information, CCTV footage, or dash-cam recordings to come forward. Even seemingly insignificant details could be vital to our inquiry.”
Individuals with information related to the case can reach out to the police by calling 101 and quoting reference 482 13/07/26 or by completing a witness appeal form on the PSNI website. Alternatively, anonymous tips can be provided to Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111 or online.
For mental health support, the Samaritans can be contacted at 116 123, via email at jo@samaritans.org, or by visiting samaritans.org to locate the nearest branch.
