Damien Heagney: Police say suspected human remains found in search for missing Cookstown man

Police say suspected human remains have been recovered at Cappagh Reservoir, County Tyrone, as part of an ongoing investigation into the disappearance and murder of missing Cookstown man Damien Heagney.

The 47-year-old was reported missing last month, however, he has not been seen since last December.

Specialist officers, divers and dogs performed a search of the reservoir area on Wednesday afternoon.

The PSNI said the remains have been taken away for examination and identification.

Searches have so far been carried out at three residential premises in Tyrone and a number of items have been taken away for examination.

A £20,000 reward has been offered for information leading to a prosecution.

A 50-year-old man arrested on suspicion of murder on 6 August was later released on bail pending further enquiries.During a press conference on Wednesday, Detective Chief Inspector Rachel Wilson said police had recovered Mr Heagney's car, a grey BMW, registration FX6 6JXR.

“We have also identified another vehicle of interest, a white Citroen Berlingo van, registration number LM58 UVW," she added.

“We know that the Citroen van travelled in the Tyrone and Fermanagh areas between Friday 31 December and Friday 7 January. I would like to hear from anyone who saw this van during that time period.

“Finally, Damien’s dog Tyson, a three-year old black coloured Rottweiler cross breed, which was wearing a red coloured collar, is also missing.

"I would appeal for anyone who has any information surrounding Damien’s disappearance and murder to contact Major Investigation Team detectives on 101 quoting reference 1058 of 19/07/22.

“The charity Crimestoppers is offering a reward of up to £20,000 for information it receives that leads to the prosecution of those responsible.  Crimestoppers is independent of the police.

"To stay anonymous, contact Crimestoppers directly on Freephone 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org. There is no caller line display, no 1471 facility and computer IP addresses are never traced.”

“A report can also be submitted online using the non-emergency reporting form via http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/.