LAST UPDATE | 25 Aug 2025

DETECTIVES IN NORTHERN Ireland have launched a murder investigation into the death of an 84-year-old man in Co Down.

The man has been identified locally as Sean Small, who had recently completed a three-year prison sentence for multiple sexual offences, including sexual activity with a child and sexual assault.

He was sentenced in 2022 to six years in prison, with half served under supervised licence conditions.

Police received a report at around 10:30pm on Sunday that a man had been found dead in the Slievenabrock Avenue area of Newcastle.

Detectives are appealing for anyone with information to come forward.

“We understand this news will cause shock and concern within this close-knit community of Newcastle,” said Detective Chief Inspector Kerrie Foreman.

“Local people will see our officers in and around the area, with cordons still in place today. Our enquiries are at an early stage, and I am appealing to anyone with dashcam or doorbell footage, or other information, to contact us on 101 quoting reference number 1746 24/08/25.”

Witnesses or anyone with information can also share details online with the PSNI or anonymously via the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.

Chief Inspector Adam Ruston of Newry Mourne and Down said the local community “will be in shock today following the news of this older man’s death,” adding that waking up to such news in a close-knit residential area is likely distressing.

“However, I want to provide reassurance that we are working at pace to investigate the circumstances of this murder and will be relentless in our pursuit of the perpetrators and in securing justice,” Ruston said.

He added that there will be an increased police presence in the area as investigations continue.

SDLP South Down MLA Colin McGrath described the news as “deeply shocking” and said the community was “stunned.”

“For such a violent death to occur in Newcastle will understandably cause concern and I would ask people to avoid speculation and to remain calm,” he said.

“It is vital that the police are given every piece of information they need to carry out their investigation. Anyone who can assist should come forward without delay.”