Further searches launched almost 3 weeks after Co. Down man's disappearance

by Q Radio News

Detectives investigating the murder of 55-year-old William 'Pat' McCormick are conducting further searches in Comber today. 

Pat hasn't been seen since he entered a block of flats in the town on the night of Friday 31st May. 

Officers are now carrying out searches in the Comber River, near the Leisure Centre and significant searches are underway in the Ballygraffan Road area. 

An underwater search team is also examining a lake just off the Lisbarnet Road in Comber. 

Detective Chief Inspector Pete Montgomery, who is leading the investigation continues to appeal for information. 

He said; “I would again like to thank the Comber community – residents and businesses - for their patience and their support in this investigation and in providing valuable information and I would continue to urge anyone who was in the Comber area on the evening of Friday 31st May or the following morning and who may have any information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, to contact detectives.

“On the night of Pat’s disappearance, he was wearing a beige jacket, blue jeans and brown brogue shoes.

"If you come across disguarded clothing matching this description or Pat’s iphone SE or his Ben Sherman watch with brown strap and a black face - please contact police.

“It is now almost three weeks’ from Pat’s disappearance and his family remain absolutely devastated.

"They deserve to know what has happened to him and deserve to have his body back.

“Members of the local community may have information that could be key to giving Pat’s family some answers.

"I would urge anyone who has any information surrounding Pat’s disappearance to contact detectives at the incident room at Musgrave Street on 101. 

“I would also like to appeal to those directly responsible to come forward to police – examine your conscience and allow Pat’s family to give him a proper burial. You are denying them this right.”