The father of a Belfast man found dead in Spain has vowed he will never never set foot in the country again, as he arrived back in Northern Ireland after spending four weeks looking for his son.
The body of John George, also known as John Hardy, was found on Tuesday in Rojales, around 40 minutes south of Alicante.
His disappearance on December 14 prompted a huge search of the Spanish town, with supporters flying out to aid the family as they searched for their loved one’s remains.
John George
Earlier today, a 32-year-old man was brought to court in Spain after being arrested in the murder investigation.
He has since been released on bail by an investigating judge pending an ongoing criminal probe.
Back in Northern Ireland, the family received support from thousands nicknamed ‘John George’s Army’ – with over 100 people standing in Belfast International Airport’s arrivals area to great the George family, which also included John George’s sister Courtney and his brother Darren.
Speaking to the Belfast Telegraph, Mr George’s father, Billy, said it was “heartbreaking” to arrive back in Northern Ireland without his son, but vowed he will “get him justice.”
“Today has been heartbreaking, it’s a day of sadness,” he said.
“When we got off the plane there, we were just told that the (32-year-old who was arrested) has been released on bail.
“But today, I just want to get home, get settled, and get John home as soon as possible.”
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John George’s remains are currently in a morgue in Alicante, where he will remain until an autopsy is completed. It is expected to take around 10-14 days before his body can be released.
Asked about arriving back in Belfast for the first time since his son’s death was confirmed, Mr George said: “Jesus, it’s heartbreaking.
“But the support here has been unbelievable, I don’t even know half of these people, but this is fantastic.
“The wider support has been fantastic. I never expected in my life to get off a plane and see this type of support.”
John George’s family arrive home from Spain, pictured this afternoon at Belfast International Airport. Image: PressEye
Mr George said he believes his son was “lured to his death” in Spain, and it is not “something he will ever come to terms with”.
He added that is looking forward to seeing Mr George’s two sons back in west Belfast, but admitted he is bracing himself for further heartbreak when he sees them”.
“When I see the two boys later today, that will be heartbreaking. I want to give them a hug. They’re part of our world now – we will never forget him, we will never forget John George.”
Asked if he plans on travelling back to Spain to bring his son’s body home, Mr George added: “I will never set foot in that place again. Never in my life.”
Speaking to the wider crowd gathered in the airport, Mr George said: “I will be bringing my son home, I won’t be abandoning him, we want justice for John George, and we will get it.”
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John George’s family lay flowers in Spain