Police launch murder inquiry in Armagh

Police have launched a murder inquiry following the death of a 35-year-old man from gunshot wounds in County Armagh on Monday.

The victim, named locally as Martin Conlon from Armagh City, was found unconscious on the Farnaloy Road near Keady at around 6.50pm by a number of people who apparently stopped to assist the man. Police have appealed for these people to come forward.

Sinn Féin MP for Newry & Armagh Conor Murphy said that people in the area were shocked at the news.

"Whatever was the motivation behind this killing it was unjustifiable, wrong and should not have happened," Mr Murphy said.

"Initial reports are suggesting that this was an Armagh man who was abducted from his home in the city yesterday and brutally shot outside Keady.

"There can be no possible justification for this killing. I would extend my sympathies to the mans family and friends at this very difficult time."

UUP Newry and Armagh Assemblyman Cllr Danny Kennedy also condemned the murder. He said: “This has all the hallmarks of a paramilitary style attack but we will await the outcome of police investigations before reaching any definite conclusions. The next IMC report is due next January and it is also important to see what is said then.

“I am certain that most would agree with me when I say that I thought the days of discovering bodies dumped at the side of South Armagh roads were gone never to return.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the deceased’s family.”

Detectives have also appealed for anyone who was travelling on the Farnaloy Road around teatime on Monday November 7 and may have witnessed any suspicious movement of cars on the road to contact the Armagh Incident room on 0845 600 8000 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

The Farnaloy Road has been closed as police examine a car found close to the scene believed to belong to the victim.

(MB/SP)