Chief Minister 'shocked and saddened' by Ramsey incident

Police have confirmed death of local person and murder investigation launched

Chief Minister Alfred Cannan says he is 'shocked and saddened' following an incident in Ramsey today (29 May) which has resulted in the death of a local person.

The Isle of Man Constabulary has announced the death of a local victim after police officers were called to an incident in the area of Close Drean at 3.38pm this afternoon.

A murder investigation has been launched and another local has been arrested in connection with the investigation.

Mr Cannan says his 'thoughts and deepest condolences are with the family and friends of the victim at this dreadful time' as well as 'our emergency services who are responding to this incident.'

Furthermore, the chief minister has urged members of the public not to speculate on the matter or share any distressing material online and that anyone with information should contact the constabulary to help them with their enquiries.

Authorities also state this is believed to have been an isolated incident and there is nothing to suggest that the general public are at any further risk.

Anyone who witnessed what happened or has any information regarding the incident is being asked to contact Police Headquarters on 631 212 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Mr Cannan's statement in full reads as follows:

"I am shocked and saddened by the events that have taken place in Ramsey today.

"My thoughts and deepest condolences are with the family and friends of the victim at this dreadful time, and also with our emergency services who are responding to this incident.

"It is imperative that the Isle of Man Constabulary are now able to continue with their ongoing investigation into this isolated incident, as they look to understand what has happened. 

"I would urge the public to follow their request not to speculate or share any distressing material online, and for anyone with information to please contact them directly to assist with their enquiries."

Politicians

Ramsey MHK's Lawrie Hooper and Alex Allinson also took to social media to share their thoughts and condolences with the family and friends of the victim. 

On X, Mr Hooper wrote: 'This is awful news and devastating for our small community.

'I would appreciate there will be a lot of concern but I would urge people to refrain from speculating and to allow those of our friends and neighbors directly affected the time and space they need' 

This is awful news & devastating for our small community

I appreciate there will be a lot of concern but I would urge people to refrain from speculating & to allow those of our friends & neighbours directly affected the time & space they need at what must be an impossible time https://t.co/sUOlPfTAlV

— Lawrie Hooper MHK (@LawrieHooper) May 29, 2025

Dr Allinson added the constabulary needs time to fully investigate 'this tragic incident'

Onchan MHK, Rob Callister, who grew up in the north of the Island posted on Facebook, "as an island, we are a small and very tight-knit community, and our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends during this difficult time."