21/08/2019

Police Issue Appeal Over Co Down Murder

Detectives investigating a fatal shooting in County Down on Monday night have issued further details and appealed to the public for information.

54-year-old Malcolm McKeown was shot dead in his BMW at a petrol station in the Main Street area of Waringstown village.

The father of three entered Dewarts Garage at approximately 7.15pm and then headed towards his vehicle that was parked to the side of the shop. Police believe it was around this time that the gunman, or gunmen, shot him in cold blood.

His body was discovered shortly before 9pm.

Detective Chief Inspector Peter Montgomery has since launched a murder investigation. Issuing an appeal for information, he said: "I know that Mr McKeown entered the shop at Dewarts Garage at approx. 7.15pm on Monday and when he came out he walked to his vehicle parked to the side of the garage. It was around this time that the gunman or gunmen shot him.

"Were you in Dewarts Garage or in Waringstown Main Street on Monday between 6pm-7:30pm. Did you see Mr McKeown's vehicle, a silver coloured BMW, registration XEZ 5518. Do you have Dashcam footage on your vehicle?

"I am appealing for information about anyone witnessed in and around the filling station that night between 6pm-7:30pm.

"I would also like to hear from anyone who saw Mr McKeown at any stage during Monday."

Detective Chief Inspector Montgomery said he is keeping an open mind as to the motive for the murder at this early stage in the investigation.

A blue coloured car was seen leaving the scene and a Volkswagen Passat, registration RK62 PLX, was later found burnt out on the Glenavon Road in Lurgan.

Anyone who saw the vehicle, or who knows where the driver went, is urged to contact police on 101. Information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 which is 100% anonymous.



(JG/CM)

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