Murder inquiry launched over death of Fionntán McGarvey

Fionntán McGarvey
Author: Chelsie KealeyPublished 20th Jan 2022
Last updated 20th Jan 2022

Detectives from Police Service of Northern Ireland’s Major Investigation Team have launched a murder investigation following the death of 18-year-old Fionntán McGarvey.

He died in hospital this morning (20 Jan 2022), following an incident outside licensed premises in the Finaghy Road North area of Belfast in the early hours of Monday 27 December.

A 21-year-old male was arrested this morning on suspicion of murder and is currently being questioned.

Detective Chief Inspector Raymond Phelan said: “We believe that Fionntán was assaulted outside licensed premises around 1am on Monday 27 December. Police attended and Fionntán was brought to hospital for treatment to his injuries. Tragically, despite treatment, he died this morning.

“I know there was a large number of people in the area at the time and I am appealing to anyone who may have witnessed the assault, or have any information to come forward.

“I am also appealing to anyone with mobile phone or dash-cam footage that could help with enquiries to contact police on 101 quoting reference 184 of 27/12/21.

“Any footage can be uploaded onto the Major Incident Public Portal at: at: https://mipp.police.uk/operation/PSNI22R01-PO1

“A report can also be submitted online using the non-emergency reporting form via http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/. You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at http://crimestoppers-uk.org/.”

A Statement issued on behalf of the family of Fionntán McGarvey said:

“We are devastated to lose our beautiful son Fionntán but take comfort that his wish to donate his organs will provide other families with hope at our time of deep loss.

“The family is grateful for the many messages of sympathy and support we have received.

“We would ask for privacy at this most difficult time.”

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