The mother of a missing man whose body was found after he entered the River Foyle in Londonderry has expressed her gratitude to the searchers who helped find her “beautiful son”.
The search operation for Donal Armstrong had been underway for 15 days after he reportedly entered the River Foyle at the end of September.
Foyle Search and Rescue, based in Prehen in the Waterside area of the city, confirmed on Sunday that a body had been found.
Commenting under a social media post which confirmed her son’s body had been discovered, Aisling Armstrong said: “Thank you so much to everyone who gave their time & support to help find our beautiful son Donal.”
In a statement on Sunday evening, Foyle Search and Rescue thanked all those who gave up their time to assist in the operation.
“Earlier this morning on day 15, shortly before our teams and family and friends of Donal Armstrong began our co-ordinated search, Boyne Rescue found a body”, said a spokesperson.
“Both organisations then worked together to return Donal home to his family. We would like to thank everyone who supported the Armstrong family over the last 2 weeks, whether it was searching, providing refreshments or simply supporting them.
“It has warmed our hearts.
“Our sincere thanks to our partner agencies within NISAR: Search & Rescue Dog Association – SARDA Ireland North , Community Rescue Service Western District and local policing for their help in searches.”
The statement added: “All assistance has been very much appreciated, including that of our dedicated volunteers.
“Our sincerest thoughts are with the Armstrong family in the coming days, weeks and months ahead.
“May Donal rest in peace.”
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