Dead priest was being investigated
A NEWCASTLE priest who has been found dead was being investigated by police for historic child sex abuse.
Canon Michael McCoy of St Mary’s Cathedral in Newcastle city centre died last Saturday morning.
Prior to the 57-year-old’s death, the Chronicle can now reveal an allegation of child sex abuse against him was made to Northumbria Police.
It is understood the police investigation was only in its early stages when Canon McCoy was found dead at a property in Newcastle.
His death is not being treated as suspicious and a report has been prepared for the coroner.
It is understood Canon McCoy was not interviewed or arrested by officers in relation to the alleged abuse.
A Northumbria Police spokeswoman said: “We can confirm we received concerns about a named individual and enquiries were ongoing to establish if any criminal offences had been committed.
“The man had not been arrested or interviewed under caution but on April 10 we received a report he had been found deceased at an address in Newcastle.
“There are not believed to be any suspicious circumstances around the man’s death and a report has been prepared for the coroner.”
The Diocese of Hexham and Newcastle did not wish to comment when asked about the allegation made against Canon McCoy.
Before taking up his role at St Mary’s, Canon McCoy was a priest in parishes across Sunderland including St Anne’s in Pennywell, St Joseph’s in Millfield and St Benet’s in Monkwearmouth.
The Diocese of Hexham and Newcastle said in a statement: “Following the sad news of the death of Canon Michael McCoy on April 10 2021, the Diocese of Hexham and Newcastle calls for prayers to be offered for the repose of his soul and for his family at this painful time.
“The Safeguarding Department of the Diocese of Hexham and Newcastle continues to cooperate fully with Northumbria Police to assist with their investigation in respect of Canon McCoy.”
An inquest into Canon McCoy’s death will take place at Newcastle Coroner’s Court in due course.