Markethill victim named locally as James Shields

The Markethill man, was found dead along the Shillinghill Road on Monday around 7am.

“We are currently working to establish the circumstances surrounding the death. However, at this stage we believe this may have been as a result of a hit-and-run road traffic collision,” he said.

Newry & Armagh DUP Assemblyman William Irwin MLA has told of his shock “to learn of the death of Mr Shields and my thoughts and prayers are with his family circle at this difficult time”.

Councillor Paul Berry also told of his “shock and sadness” at learning a body had been found on the Shillinghill Road outside Markethill.

“This is tragic news and our thoughts and prayers are with the family at his distressing time,” he said.

“This area is very quite and tranquil and this incident has come as a real shock to the local community.”

UUP MLA Danny Kennedy described the discovery of the body as “deeply tragic” and “a matter of great concern to the local community”.

“This is a very quiet, rural area and the news of the discovery has shocked the local community.” he said. “I offer my sincere sympathy to the family and friends of the individual, who is well known in the area, at this difficult time”.

Mr Shields is deeply regretted by his siblings Louella, Walter, Maureen, Evelyn, Lydia, Noeleen and Winston and wider family circle according to a death insertion in the News Letter.