Man shot dead in Co.Antrim home

By David Hunter

Detectives are hunting the killers of a farmer who was shot dead inside his home in Co Antrim.

The victim, named locally as David Hugh Murphy, was found by a friend in the property on the outskirts of Ballymena on Tuesday afternoon.

Mr Murphy, who was in his early 50's, was known to the police.

(Forensics examined the scene this afternoon)

Police launched a murder investigation on Tuesday evening.

Forensic investigators have been examining the house in Church Road, Glenwherry

Alliance MLA Stewart Dickson said “This is a shocking incident and my thoughts are with the loved ones of the deceased at what must be an extremely sad time for them. It will have caused great distress in what is a quiet, rural area."

“It is important the police establish the circumstances of this man’s death. If anyone has any information whatsoever, I would urge them to contact the PSNI with it immediately.”

(The body was found at a house on Church Road, Glenwherry)

Sinn Féin’s Oliver McMullan said:

“The local community is in shock after the discovery that a man was shot dead in a house at Church Road in Glenwherry.

“This is a quiet area and locals are alarmed at what has happened. The PSNI have launched a murder inquiry and investigations are now underway.

“I would appeal to anyone with information on what happened to bring it forward to the PSNI.”

(Picture credit: Alan Lewis)