Remains of Murdered Belfast Father John George Return to Ireland from Spain
The remains of John George, a Belfast father, have been returned from Spain after a month-long search by his family
Belfast, Ireland, Spain, John George, Murder, Family, Investigation
Belfast: So, John George’s remains were flown back to Dublin from Spain on Thursday night. Undertakers from O’Neill’s Funeral Directors picked them up to take them across the border.
He was tragically shot, and his body was found in a rural area near Alicante around December 14.
Spanish police found his remains after his family launched a big campaign to find him. They even flew to Spain to help with the search.
John’s funeral is set for next Friday at St Luke’s Church in Twinbrook, where a Requiem Mass will be held.
This return marks the end of a tough month for his parents, Billy and Sharon George, who fought hard to bring their son home.
Instead of flowers, the family has asked for donations to the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust, a charity that helps bring home those who die abroad unexpectedly.
This charity was started after a family tragedy in 2013 when Kevin Bell passed away suddenly in New York.
Courtney George mentioned, “Without this amazing charity, we would never have been able to get John home to where he belongs.”
John was described as a devoted father to Jason and Jacob, a beloved brother, and a cherished partner.
His family is heartbroken, and they’re missing him dearly.
Books of condolence are open at O’Neill Funeral Directors on Stewartstown and Falls roads in Belfast.
Meanwhile, Spanish police are still investigating John’s murder.
A 32-year-old man from the Czech Republic was arrested but has since been released on bail as the investigation continues.
Authorities are also searching for a second suspect who might have fled the area after the murder.
John last spoke to his family on December 14, and they later learned he had lost his phone but was supposed to fly back to Belfast on December 18.
When he didn’t board the flight, his family started to worry.
It turns out that the return flight was booked after he was murdered, which is now part of the investigation.
His remains were found last week in a rural area near Rojales, about 45 minutes south of Alicante.
Interpol is also helping Spanish authorities with the murder investigation.