Community 'shock' after Patsy Aust found murdered in Bangor home

A woman who was found dead in her home in Co Down has been named as Patricia ‘Patsy’ Aust.

The 81-year-old was pronounced dead at the scene after police were called to the Hawthorne Court area of Bangor on Sunday evening.

A murder investigation is underway and an 85-year-old man, who was arrested on suspicion of murder, remains in police custody at this time.

“Officers responded to a report of the death of a woman in a house, just off the Clandeboye Road, on the evening of Sunday 2 June," a PSNI spokesperson said.

“Sadly, the lady, whom we can now name as Patricia Aust, was pronounced dead at the scene.

“Patricia, also known as Patsy, was 81 years old. My thoughts, and that of my team, are first and foremost with her loved ones at this distressing time."

A church minister told UTV the community has been left in shock by the news.

Rev Mark Johnston, of St Andrew's Presbyterian Church, said people are "struggling to get our heads around what's unfolding at the minute".

He said: "This is a community that's really tight-knit, it's a wonderful part of Bangor, and the family is much loved and cared for by all of us in this local community.

"We're all struggling to get our heads around what's unfolding at the minute.

"Our thoughts and our deep prayers are with the whole family, the local neighbourhood and the wide community at this really difficult time."

Police said they received a report of the death of a woman at a house in the Hawthorne Court area of the city shortly after 5.30pm on Sunday, June 2. “On arrival, officers located the body of a woman in the living room area of the property," police said in a statement. “Sadly, the woman was pronounced dead at the scene, and inquiries are at an early stage in order to determine exactly what has happened.” The spokesperson added: “An 85-year-old man was arrested at the property on suspicion of murder. “He remains in custody at this time as inquiries continue. “At present, we are not seeking anyone else at this time in connection with the investigation. “I am appealing to anyone who believes they may have information which could assist us with our investigation to contact us on 101 quoting reference 1260 02/06/24.” Catch up with the latest UTV Live on ITVX

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