Damien Heagney: Suspected human remains found in search at Cappagh reservoir

Damien Heagney, who was reported missing in July, is believed to have been murdered

Suspected human remains have been found following searches for a missing man in County Tyrone, police said.

Police searched a reservoir in Cappagh as part of an investigation into the disappearance of Damien Heagney.

Earlier on Wednesday, divers were seen at the water's edge removing a long bag placed on a stretcher.

The 47-year-old was first reported missing in July, but police recently upgraded this to a murder investigation.

Mr Heagney, who is from Cookstown, was last seen in Dromore, County Tyrone, on New Year's Eve.

A £20,000 reward is being offered for information leading to a prosecution in relation to his death.

To date, police have searched three properties in County Tyrone and taken a number of items away for further examination.

Specialist officers and divers searched the reservoir in Cappagh on Wednesday

Vehicle of interest

Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) Det Ch Insp Rachel Wilson confirmed on Wednesday that police officers had recovered Mr Heagney's car, a Grey BMW, which is currently being examined.

They have also identified another vehicle of interest.

"A white Citroen Berlingo van, registration number LM58 UVW," Det Ch Insp Wilson said.

"We know that the Citroen van travelled in the Tyrone and Fermanagh areas between Friday 31 December and Friday 7 January.

"I would like to hear from anyone who saw this van during that time period."

Det Ch Insp Wilson said Mr Heagney's dog, Tyson, also remains missing.

He is a three-year-old, black Rottweiler cross breed, and was last seen wearing a red collar.

Altmore reservoir, Cappagh where suspected human remains were found during searches for missing man Damien Heagney

At the weekend, a 50-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of murder and later released on bail pending further enquiries.

Det Ch Insp Wilson has appealed to anyone with information about Mr Heagney's disappearance to contact them on 101.

He has been described as 5ft 10ins (1.78m), of stocky build, with links to the Tyrone area.

Those who wish to remain anonymous can contact the Crimestoppers charity.

"The charity Crimestoppers is offering a reward of up to £20,000 for information it receives that leads to the prosecution of those responsible, " Det Ch Insp Wilson said.

"Crimestoppers is independent of the police."