Schoolboy's body released to family

The body of murdered teenager Michael McIlveen has been returned to his family in Ballymena, one week after he was beaten to death in the town.

Hundreds of mourners, including friends and neighbours, gathered outside the family home in the Dunvale Estate last night, to pay their respects as the body of the 15-year-old was brought home.

His funeral is due to be held tomorrow.

Michael McIlveen was brutally attacked last weekend as he made his way home after going to get a pizza with two friends. He managed to make his way home before being taken to hospital, where he later died from his injuries.

Since the murder, tensions remain high in the area and extra police officers have been deployed in a bid to prevent Republican reprisals.

Yesterday, leaflets were handed out in the loyalist Ballykeel estate stating that a community watch group had been set up to "protect children" in the area.

Seven teenagers have been charged so far in connection with Michael's murder.

Yesterday, two youths appeared in court in connection with the death.

A 15-year-old was charged with his murder, while a 16-year-old teenager was charged with causing affray.

Both boys were remanded in custody as detectives opposed bail, claiming that they could not guarantee their safety if released, as threats on their lives had been made.

The teenager will join five other youths who are already in custody charged with the murder.

All seven, will appear before Coleraine Magistrates Court via video-link on June 8.

(EF/SP)