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Father's Body Found on NI Beach; Foul Play Suspected
28 Feb
Summary
- Father's body discovered on Northern Ireland beach months after vanishing.
- Family suspects assault and being 'thrown into the water'.
- Cause of death remains unascertained by the coroner.
Andrew Murphy, a 47-year-old father from New Ferry, was reported missing after last being seen on March 29, 2025. His remains were discovered by a dog walker on Millisle Beach in County Down, Northern Ireland, on May 21, 2025. His partner indicated he had mentioned needing to pay money to some people shortly before he vanished.
The inquest, held on February 27, 2026, heard that a post-mortem examination could not establish a definitive cause of death due to decomposition. However, the pathologist did not exclude third-party involvement. Mr. Murphy's family strongly believes he was assaulted and pushed into the water, citing previous bullying and the state of his injuries.
Coroner Joe McCrisken concluded that Mr. Murphy entered the River Mersey, with his remains subsequently washing ashore in Northern Ireland. He noted three potential scenarios: another party's involvement, cardiac arrest, or a tragic accident. The cause of death was ruled unascertained, and the findings will be passed to Merseyside Police.
