Ombudsman seeks answers after man ‘raised concerns with PSNI’
THE Police Ombudsman has contacted the PSNI after it emerged that the father of murdered Stacey Knell’s daughter had voiced concerns about his child shortly before Friday’s killings.
Kenneth Flanagan (26) murdered his mother Karen Mcclean (50) and girlfriend Ms Knell (30) in separate knife attacks in Newtownabbey, Co Antrim on Friday night. Flanagan then took his own life.
Sam Lillie, the father of Ms Knell’s nine year-old child, said he had contacted social services and the PSNI earlier that day because of concerns about his child.
He told the BBC: “As you know the police can’t do anything unless somebody does something.
“I knew that even before I went to the police station, so I knew I was wasting my time going there, but I did what they told me to do.”
The PSNI confirmed on Saturday they received a report of concern for the child’s safety on Friday afternoon.
“Following review, there was no evidence of immediate concern for the child’s safety and the caller was provided with advice in respect of the matter,” added Chief Superintendent Davy Beck.
Last night a spokesman for the Police Ombudsman said information is being gathered to determine whether there should be an investigation into the PSNI’S actions.
“We have not received a complaint, but in light of the issues which have been raised, we have contacted police to request some additional information,” he said.
“This will help to determine whether there are any matters which require investigation by this Office.” Meanwhile, friends of Ms Knell have spoken of their gratitude after a fundraising appeal in her memory raised its target of £500 in just 15 hours.
Melissa Morrison, a friend of Ms Knell’s, started a Gofundme page to help the young mother’s loved ones with funeral costs.
The campaign raised £550 in just 15 hours and Melissa thanked those who had donated so far to the campaign.
Writing on Facebook, the Belfast woman said she “couldn’t believe” the amount raised, adding: “Thank you all so much, we are all so grateful.”