‘United in sympathy’

 

Sudden death of Dee woman Mandy Magill shocks community

By Julie Waters

THE Donaghadee community is ‘united in offering support and sympathy’ to the family and friends of local woman Mandy Magill following her sudden death.

The local mum of one, was aged in her 50s and was discovered at a property in the Rosepark area of the picturesque seaside town.

A man, also aged in his 50s, was arrested by detectives as part of the investigation. He was later released on bail to allow for further police enquiries.

The area was cordoned off as police and forensic officers carried out their investigations, with flowers left outside the property.

Leading the public outpouring of sympathy, North Down MP Alex Easton said he was ‘shocked and saddened to learn of the tragic death’.

“My thoughts and heartfelt condolences go out to her family and friends during this incredibly difficult time. This is an unimaginable loss for them, and I know the entire community will be united in offering support and sympathy,” said the Independent Unionist.

 He praised the PSNI for their ‘swift response’ and urged anyone with information that may assist the ongoing investigation to come forward.

Said Mr Easton: “It is crucial that we allow the PSNI to conduct their work thoroughly to uncover the full circumstances surrounding this incident.

“This tragedy serves as a painful reminder of the need to continue prioritising the safety and wellbeing of everyone in our community. Donaghadee is a close-knit town, and I am confident that its residents will stand together in the wake of this heartbreaking event. 

“I would also echo the sentiments of local representatives in urging anyone with knowledge of this incident to contact the PSNI. 

North Down assemblyman Stephen Dunne also expressed his shock saying: “The news that a lady has died in Donaghadee is very sad news, and my thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of the woman who has sadly passed away.

“It is important that the PSNI and agencies are given time and space to carry out their investigations. I would appeal to anyone with information that may assist in their investigation to come forward immediately. 

“There has been a concerning rise in deaths of women across the country in recent weeks and I will be engaging with the PSNI to ensure local women are reassured and feel safe during these concerning times.”

Ulster Unionist Alan Chambers said: “My thoughts and prayers go out to all the family and friends of Mandy Magill, following her tragic sudden death in Donaghadee. 

“I would call for everyone to give the police the space they need to carry out a full investigation. I would also highlight the PSNI’s request that if anyone has any relevant information at this crucial stage to get in touch with the police through their 101 non-emergency number.”

Alliance Party MLA Connie Egan described the the news of Ms Magill’s death as ‘devastating’. She said: “I am horrified that another woman has lost her life in Northern Ireland. My thoughts are with Mandy’s family and loved ones at this extremely difficult time, especially her young daughter.”

Alderman Mark Brooks said: “Donaghadee’s heart is its community and this has shocked everybody. Mandy was well known and everyone is shocked. Our thoughts are with her family and friends.”

Detective Chief Inspector McGuinness appealed to anyone who was in the Rosepark area between the night of Sunday,  October 13 and the morning of Monday, October 14 with information to contact officers on 101. Please quote reference 214 of 14/10/24.