Seven people were arrested on suspicion of murder following an incident at Parkdean holiday resort in Camber Sands at which a 53-year-old man was pronounced dead. Six have since been released on conditional bail and one remains in police custody.
The deceased, who tragically died at the scene, was subsequently named as Michael McDonagh from London. His next of kin were informed and are being cared for by specialist officers.
Emergency services were called last Friday at 10:50pm following reports of a disturbance after a group altercation broke out at the end of a Premier League football match between Arsenal and Crystal Palace.
Mr McDonagh’s family has paid tribute to him in a statement released through Sussex Police.
It said: “On Saturday morning we found out we lost our father Michael McDonagh.
“Michael was a loving and supportive husband of 32 years and a father of six, taken from us whilst on a family holiday.
“His family meant everything to him. He came away to make memories with his wife and children, but we walk away with broken hearts and unanswered questions
“It’s impossible to put into words. Our dad was the centre of our world and the life and soul of every party.
“Michael was a kind-hearted man who died too young, leaving behind all those that loved him.”
At the time of going to press, Sussex Police have made no further statement since Wednesday, August 9 when Detective Chief Inspector Emma Vickers said: “A complex and fast-moving investigation is underway to establish precisely what happened and identify those responsible.
“I understand incidents such as these can have a profound impact on the wider community and I would like to offer my assurances that this was an isolated incident and we are working tirelessly to find out the full circumstances.”
“My condolences go out to Michael’s family following Friday night’s tragic events.”
Anybody who witnessed the incident or has any information which could help with the investigation is asked to contact police online via the Sussex Police website, or by calling 101, quoting Operation Molton.
Any relevant images or video footage can also be uploaded by the public to the Sussex Police section of the Major Incident Public Portal, under Op Molton, here – Public Portal (mipp.police.uk)
Image Credits: Nick Forman , Sussex Police .