Bodies of two men found near Antrim village after suspected shooting

Two men have been found dead after a suspected shooting incident in Glenarm, Co Antrim.

A local Assembly member suggested the deaths were a “terrible tragedy”. There are no suggestions that the incident is paramilitary or gang-related.

Two men were found dead at a farm building on Feystown Road a short distance outside the village on the Antrim coast, roughly 20km north of Larne. It is understood a farm worker discovered the bodies.

Fatal wounds
The Police Service of Northern Ireland said the men had suffered what they termed "fatal wounds", but did not confirm that they had been shot.

Police officers were called to the scene at about 5.15pm yesterday after receiving a report that the two bodies had been discovered. “An investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deaths is under way,” said a PSNI spokesman in Belfast. He added there were no further details pending an investigation.

There was a heavy police presence at the scene last night. Forensic teams in white overalls carried out examinations with investigating officers looking on.

A small crowd of local people started to gather at police cordons as news filtered through of the deaths.

Sinn Féin Assembly member Oliver McMullan described the incident as tragic not only for the families of the two men, but also for the community.

“The community is in a state of shock as both men were well known within this tight-knit community,” he said. “My thoughts and prayers are with the families at this time.”

Alliance Assembly member Stewart Dickson said the "absolutely shocking incident" had left the village and local community stunned. "My thoughts are with the families and friends of the deceased and would call for anyone with any information to contact the PSNI as soon as possible."

'Tragic incident'
The Alliance MLA added: "I hope the police will be able to determine what was behind this tragic incident tonight."

SDLP leader Alasdair McDonnell said every assistance should be given to the PSNI as their investigation gets under way.

“I want to convey my deepest sympathies to the families of the two men who have lost their lives following a tragic incident at a farm on the Feystown Road,” said Mr Dickson.

“The entire community will be united in their sense of grief at this shocking and disturbing occurrence. Both men were well-known and their untimely deaths will be met with disbelief by those in the community.”