Police in Northern Ireland have launched a murder investigation following the death of a 43-year-old man whose body was found earlier this week at a residential address in Coleraine. Detectives from the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) today confirmed that a man has been arrested on suspicion of murder as inquiries continue. 

Officers were called to a property in the Society Court area of Coleraine shortly after 11:30 a.m. on Monday, January 12, alongside colleagues from the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service, following a report of a concern for welfare. At the scene, Wayne Reid, aged 43, was pronounced dead. 

A 33-year-old man has since been arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in police custody, as detectives work to establish the full circumstances surrounding Reid’s death. Police have not released further details about the suspect or possible motives at this early stage. 

Detective Chief Inspector Hazel Miller, from PSNI’s Major Investigation Team, said the force believes Reid may have been involved in an altercation in the Coleraine area between January 8 and January 10, and this is part of the ongoing line of inquiry. The investigation is active and evolving, with officers examining forensic evidence and witness accounts. 

The scene remained sealed off as detectives continued forensic searches and enquiries, with police appealing directly to the public for any information that may assist the investigation. Authorities urged anyone who saw or heard anything unusual in the Society Court or Society Street areas around the first week of January to come forward. 

Local community reaction has been one of shock and sadness, with friends and neighbors describing Reid as a devoted father and well-known member of the town. Tributes have begun to appear online from people who knew him, highlighting the impact of the tragedy on residents. 

Public Appeal for Information

Police have reiterated that the public’s help is valuable, even if information seems insignificant. Anyone with relevant details has been asked to contact the PSNI on 101, quoting reference number 552 of 12/01/2026 or to provide anonymous details via Crimestoppers. 

As the probe continues, PSNI detectives are expected to update the community with further developments when appropriate.