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Murder inquiry after three family members found dead in house

Luke Sprouleand
Barry O'Connor,BBC News NI
Pacemaker A wide shot showing the Old Cullybackey Road with police tape across it. Three silver cars and a white van are parked one behind the other on the left of the road while a blue Skoda is parked in the middle of the road. Two forensic officers in white forensic suits can be seen as well as a PSNI officer.Pacemaker
Forensic officers have been pictured working at the scene

A murder investigation has been launched by police after three people were found dead in a house.

Supt William Calderwood said the bodies of a male and two females were found inside a home in the Cullybackey Road in Ballymena, County Antrim, at about 09:00 BST on Monday.

He said the cause of death had not been formally established and that post-mortem examinations would take place later.

He added that police did not believe there was an ongoing risk to the public and detectives are not seeking anyone else in relation to the deaths.

"Our thoughts this evening are very much with the family and friends of those who have died," Calderwood said.

He appealed for people to avoid speculating about the incident.

North Antrim MP Jim Allister said the deaths had caused great shock in the community.

"Though details remain scant, clearly there are family and friends who have suffered huge loss," the Traditional Unionist Voice leader said.

Sinn Féin assembly member Philip McGuigan said speculation about what had happened was not helpful.

He said anybody who could help police should come forward.

Ulster Unionist Party leader Jon Burrows said the entire town was devastated and police should be given "patience and time" to complete their investigation.

"The more information the police can get out the better, because there is a community in shock," he said.

Alliance Party assembly member Sian Mulholland also urged anyone with information to contact the police and said her thoughts were with everyone affected.