Appeal over movements of van in McCormick probe

Police investigating the murder of Pat McCormick have released images of a van they wish to trace.

The 55-year-old father of four was last seen alive in Comber, Co Down, on the evening of Thursday 30 May.

A reward of £10,000 is being offered for information which leads to the recovery of his body.

DCI Pete Montgomery, who is leading the investigation, asked anyone with information on the movements of a blue Transit van to come forward.

He said: “I would appeal to motorists and pedestrians to think back to the following specific dates and times:

• On 30 May at approximately 23:30 heading country bound on the Killinchy Road. Did you see this distinctive van with the silver front wings? Where did it go?

• On 31 May at around 08:15 in the rear car park of Supervalu . Did you see the van parked up here? Did you see the driver? Did you see anyone at the van or any activity at the van? Later on at around 10:15 did you see it on the Killinchy Road heading in the direction of Lisbane? Did you see where it went? I need to ascertain where this van went.

• And later that day at around 14:00, did you see it travelling on the Old Ballygowan Road in Comber? Again, I need to know where this van went.

“Pat’s family deserve to have his body back and give him a proper funeral – they deserve to be able to say goodbye and lay him to rest.

“Pat’s family are completely heartbroken and devastated and they need to get some closure.

"Anyone with information about the investigation or the whereabouts of Pat should contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”