Chloe Mitchell: Two men charged in murder enquiry
Both are due in court in Ballymena later
Last updated 12th Jun 2023
A murder investigation has been launched in County Antrim after suspected human remains were found in the search for a missing 21 year old woman.
Chloe Mitchell was last seen on CCTV in Ballymena town centre in the early hours of Saturday the 3rd of June.
Two men have been charged by police; a 26 year old with murder and a 34 year old with assisting offenders.
Both are due in court in Ballymena later.
Last night (Sun ) police confirmed a murder enquiry had been launched.
Detective Chief Inspector Richard Millar said, “Sadly detectives have recovered suspected human remains in Ballymena, and while there has been no formal identification, we have now launched a murder enquiry into the circumstances surrounding the disappearance of 21-year-old Chloe Mitchell, who was a high risk missing person.”
“Earlier this week we launched a criminal investigation into Chloe’s disappearance. Tragically, we now have reason to believe that Chloe was murdered.”
“Our thoughts this evening are very much with Chloe’s family and we have specialist officers providing them with support at this heart-breaking time.”
“I would like to thank the community in Ballymena and the Search and Rescue teams for their help in trying to find Chloe.”
North Antrim MP Ian Paisley said, “I am deeply saddened and disturbed like most of my constituents to learn tonight that the police are now involved in a murder investigation into Chloe Mitchell’s disappearance. This is heartbreaking news for Chloe’s family and friends and will shadow the town of Ballymena with sadness.”
“The family have stated they are broken. No one can understand just how deep that break is. I understand the police will be giving a detailed press conference in the morning.”
“Could I thank all those who helped with the search and rescue and who gave of their time so willingly to help.”
North Antrim MLA Jim Allister said, ““Tonight’s sad news in Ballymena will evoke great sympathy and support for the Mitchell family on their tragic loss.”
“The emergency services and volunteer search and rescue participants, along with many locals from the community, rallied round with great fortitude, but now all must face this sad news.”
“I trust no effort will be spared in bringing to justice and account all who are culpable in this matter.”
Hear the latest news on Downtown on FM, DAB, smart speaker or the Rayo app.
Read more:
Police appeal for information to locate 'high risk' missing man
NI health authorities welcome Irish government plan to fund student nurses