Man found dead in Maghaberry understood to be murder accused

The prisoner died on the evening of Saturday, November 5.

It is understood the man was Gerard Mulligan, from Lisburn. He was on remand charged with the murder of his father, Gerald Mulligan at Limehurst Way, in September.

The prison service have not released his name but the next of kin have been informed.

SDLP Councillor Pat Catney told the Ulster Star that this a heartbreaking situation for the family involved.

Mr Catney lives near the house of Gerard Mulligan Snr and he said questions need to be asked of how the prison handled this man.

“This is very sad, absolutely heartbreaking. We have to think of the family here, this is a tragedy piled on top of another tragedy.

“Serious questions need to be asked about how the prison handles people who are vulnerable.

“When people go into prison they should be safe, I’m not pointing the finger at any prison officers but the management at the prison.”

As with standard procedure, the PSNI, Coroner and Prisoner Ombudsman have launched investigations into the death.

Acting Prison Service Director General Phil Wragg said: “I would like to extend my sympathy and that of the Northern Ireland Prison Service to the family of the prisoner who has died in Maghaberry.

“My thoughts are with them at this difficult time.”