Noah Donohoe: Naomi Long in Twitter row over death of teenager - family issue statement pleading for people to stop spreading rumours

The Alliance Party leader and MLA for Belfast East, hit out at several individuals who were clearly speculating and spreading rumours and information they knew to be false.

"How about stop spreading conspiracy theories online,?" she tweeted.

"What happened to Noah was a tragedy.

"It's every parent's worst nightmare.

"The last thing they need are ghouls online, speculating and whipping up tension.

"Leave them in peace to grieve," said the Justice Minister.

Noah, 14, disappeared on Sunday June 21 and his body was discovered six days later in a storm drain close to where he was last seen in North Belfast.

At the time the PSNI said they did not expect foul play.

The family of Noah, who was laid to rest last Wednesday, issued a statement a few hours after the incident involving, Justice Minister, Naomi Long.

“We the family of Noah Donohoe wish to express our continued gratitude for the outpouring of good will and love we have received since Noah went missing.

"It has been an extremely traumatic time and this love is truly supporting us.

“We recognise the huge public concern of the entire population and we thank each and every one of you. So many people have been incredibly generous to us with practical support. This support includes providing pieces of information regarding Noah’s disappearance and death.

"Separately some have also ventilated concerns on social media platforms."

The statement continued: “At this time, we are working with the PSNI on matters which are outstanding to the investigation and we are seeking answers to questions which arise.

"Noah’s disappearance and death undoubtedly raise questions, however public speculation and theory is unhelpful.

"We are dealing with the facts. The family is receiving practical and emotional support from Relatives for Justice, and are also represented by solicitor Niall Murphy of KRW Law.

“We have seen a number of social media accounts which have been founded under Noah’s name seeking further information. These accounts do not have the family’s permission.

"Rather than ventilating any issue on social media platforms we urge anyone with information regarding Noah’s disappearance and death to forward this information, including any photographic/CCTV footage to the PSNI or to Relatives for Justice (028) 90627171 email: [email protected] and [email protected].

"All information will be dealt with in strictest confidence.

“The family once again wish to thank everyone who has helped us to date and hope we can rely on the public for their continued support and help," the statement ends.