Caitlin Green: Community 'heartbroken for family facing unimaginable loss'

On Thursday police said Caitlin Green, who also went by Caity, had been missing from the Enniskeen area of Lurgan since Saturday 31 January.

She was last seen in the area of Derry Road/Lord Lurgan Park after leaving a friend’s home nearby at around 12.30 that afternoon.

Police described her as having “some vulnerabilities” and said friends and family were very concerned for her.

There had been no activity on her social media since the previous weekend, which her family said was very unusual for her.

Extensive searches were carried out in the local area by police and local search and rescue volunteers, and the public were asked to keep an eye out for her also.

When last seen she was wearing black leggings and a grey Regatta jacket. Police did not believe she had a change of clothes with her.

On Friday police issued a statement asking the public to search any privately-owned sheds or outbuildings in the area near to where she was last seen.

Extensive police searches were carried out, police said, and detectives reviewed all available CCTV, followed all investigative leads and tips to determine Caitlin’s whereabouts.

Sadly, yesterday at 5pm police confirmed that the body of a woman had been located in the Princes Street area of Lurgan that afternoon.

Whilst formal identification had not taken place, Caitlin’s family was informed.

Local MP Carla Lockhart described it as "tragic" news but said the local community would rally around her friends, family and children.

She said that "our hearts are broken for a local family facing an unimaginable loss".

"Whilst formal identification has not yet taken place, the family of Caitlin have been informed. Our thoughts and prayers are with Caitlin’s family, her friends, and especially her children at this incredibly difficult time.

"Today, a family is grieving, and they deserve privacy, dignity, and compassion.

"The outpouring of support from the community has been phenomenal, and I know in the days ahead this family will need everyone to continue to rally around them in prayer and in practical support. But above all else, I would encourage everyone to respect the family as they navigate these early, painful days.

"Moments like this remind us how fragile life is and how important it is to hold our loved ones a little closer. Hug your children tighter tonight.Please keep this family in your thoughts and prayers."

Some 600 posts have been made on social media by people expressing shock and sadness.

Lisa McGeown exemplified so many others in her thoughts.

“Awh no I was hoping n praying she'd be found safe, absolutely devastating news,” she said. “God bless her and her family.”

Mickey Molloy’s concern was especially for her family.

"Feel for the children,” he said. “No child should have to go through this. Deepest condolences.”

Pamela May was very disappointed at the tragic outcome.

"So sad hearing this,” she said. “I really hoped she would be found safe. My thoughts for all her family and friends. I understand how hard it is. So, so sad, such a beautiful girl gone too soon.”