Northern Ireland

Pat Ward murder: Family tell of 'total shock'

Pat Ward's brother and sister. Picture from ITV
Pat Ward's brother and sister. Picture from ITV Pat Ward's brother and sister. Picture from ITV

THE family of murder victim Pat Ward have told of their "total shock" at his death.

The body of Mr Ward (30) was found in an alleyway at McCrea Park in Clogher, Co Tyrone at around 8.15am on Saturday.

It is understood he was a member of the Travelling community and was originally from Co Sligo but had recently moved to the Clogher area.

In August 2007, his 23-year-old brother Tom Ward was murdered as he sat in his van outside his parents home in Sligo town.

Police have started a murder investigation. This morning police were granted an additional 28 hours by a court to question a 23-year old man and a 33-year old woman who were arrested on Saturday morning on suspicion of murder.

Mr Ward's sister Bridget said her family wanted justice but "know it's not going to bring him back".

"He has left a young wife and four kids and a broken-hearted family behind," she said.

"No-one deserved this in the world. Her soul mate has been taken away from her."

His brother Barney urged anyone with information to contact police.

Police launched a murder inquiry following the discovery of a man's body on Saturday
Police launched a murder inquiry following the discovery of a man's body on Saturday Police launched a murder inquiry following the discovery of a man's body on Saturday

A house at McCrea Park remains cordoned off with forensic officers at the scene.

Detectives have appealed for anyone who noticed unusual activity at McCrea Park late on Friday or early on Saturday to contact them.