Suspected Chemical Spill Kills Over 400 Fish in Northern Ireland River

On October 17th, 2025, authorities in Northern Ireland launched an investigation after the discovery of over 400 dead fish in a river near Ballykelly village. The Loughs Agency, which oversees the region's waterways, was notified of the suspected fish kill on Monday.

Fishery officers deployed to the scene found 422 dead fish, primarily trout, along with several salmon and flounder, across a 500-meter stretch of the river downstream from the village. While no direct source of pollution has been identified yet, officials believe the incident may have been caused by a "cleaning agent" entering the water system.

The Loughs Agency and the Northern Ireland Environment Agency's Water Management Unit have conducted a detailed investigation into the matter. They have urged the public to be extra cautious in preventing pollutants from entering storm drains, which should only carry rainwater. "Chemicals and waste products can drastically reduce water quality and cause serious harm to aquatic life," a spokesperson warned.

Independent MLA Claire Sugden has expressed deep concern over the incident, stating that it highlights the "urgent need to protect waterways" and "invest in Northern Ireland's aging water and sewage infrastructure." Sugden plans to raise this issue in the Northern Ireland Assembly, emphasizing that the situation must serve as a "wake-up call" to address the fragility of the region's rivers and wildlife.