Police launch murder probe over killing of father-of-four Kevin Kearney

A man found murdered at a lake in north Belfast has been named locally as Kevin Kearney.

The victim, a father-of-four, was reported missing by his partner from Dunmore housing estate after failing to return home on Tuesday.

Mr Kearney had left home to take his dogs for a walk.

He was found on Wednesday afternoon in a lake at Alexandra Park just off the Antrim Road.

Following the discovery of his body around 3.30 pm on Wednesday afternoon, the PSNI’s Major Investigation Team launched a murder probe.

A post-mortem examination is expected to be carried out later on Thursday to try and establish a cause of death.

Detectives want to hear from anyone who was in the park between 8.30 am and 9.30 am Tuesday.

NORTH Belfast MP Nigel Dodds said that the local community is shocked about a murder inquiry in the area.

The DUP MP said: “The police have confirmed that a body was found this afternoon in the water at Alexandra Park.

“The body was found in suspicious circumstances and the police have launched a murder investigation.

The entire community will share in the sense of shock at this appalling news. I understand that the identity of the deceased is known to the police.

“Our thoughts are with the family of the deceased. I appeal for anyone who can assist the police investigation to pass on whatever information they have,” he added.