Christopher McBurnie found ‘collapsed’ in Ramsey street as Chief Constable reveals footage of killing is circulating on social media
Boy, 14, is murdered as police arrest youth and appeal to those who filmed incident to come forward – A youth has been arrested on suspicion of murder after a 14-year-old boy was found collapsed on the Isle of Man, as police issued an urgent appeal to anyone who has shared footage of the ‘serious incident’ to come forward.
Emergency services rushed to assist Christopher McBurnie, after receiving a call shortly after 3.30pm on Thursday, in the area of Close Drean in Ramsey.
Despite their efforts, the teenager was pronounced dead at the scene, Isle of Man Constabulary said.
Police name tragic victim
In a heartbreaking update, Chief Constable Russ Foster confirmed the identity of the victim as Christopher Benjamin Robert James McBurnie, just 14 years old.
It is with deep sorrow that I confirm the tragic death of Christopher Benjamin Robert James McBurnie, who was just 14 years of age,” the Chief Constable said.
“Our thoughts, heartfelt condolences and deepest sympathy are with the family, friends and loved ones during this extremely sad and incredibly difficult time.”
The teenager’s family have released a photograph of Christopher as specialist officers provide support during their unimaginable grief.
Juvenile in custody
A juvenile suspect has been arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in custody for questioning, police confirmed.
The force described the incident as “extremely rare for the Isle of Man” and said they believe it to be an isolated incident with no further risk to the public.
A Home Office pathologist will determine the exact cause of death in due course, authorities said.
Disturbing footage circulating
In a troubling development, Chief Constable Foster revealed that video footage of the incident has been circulating on social media.
He issued a stern appeal to the public: “I’m aware of video and rumours circulating on social media, and appealed for the public to refrain from sharing such content.
Instead, police have set up an unprecedented online portal where witnesses can upload footage directly to investigators – believed to be the first time such a facility has been used on the Isle of Man.
Community in shock
The quiet residential area of Close Drean remained under heavy police cordon throughout Friday, with Gladstone Avenue closed from Close Drean to Park Ollay as forensic teams combed the scene.
Workers at nearby Gladstone Business Park expressed their horror at the tragedy unfolding on their doorstep.
It’s horrible to see things like this happen on the island, and they shouldn’t happen,” one employee told local media. “I’m really sad for everyone involved.”
A neighbour in Close Drean, visibly shaken, said: “It’s crazy – I couldn’t believe someone had died.”
Desperate appeal for witnesses
Police are urgently appealing for anyone who witnessed the incident or captured footage to come forward immediately.
Despite immediate medical intervention by officers, members of the public and other emergency services at the scene, a local victim has tragically died,” the initial police statement read.
Witnesses or anyone with information are urged to contact Police Headquarters on 631212 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.
The online portal for submitting evidence can be accessed at https://mipp.police.uk.
Island leaders respond
The Chief Minister of the Isle of Man, Alfred Cannan, released a statement expressing his shock at the tragedy.
“I am shocked and saddened by the events that have taken place in Ramsey today,” he said.
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.
Town in mourning
Ramsey Town Commissioners said they were “deeply saddened” by the incident and called for sensitivity from the public.
Chairman Alby Oldham said: “Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences go out to the families and loved ones affected during this incredibly difficult time.
“Please, let us all show respect by allowing the authorities to do their work and avoid speculating or spreading unconfirmed information.”
Support services mobilised
Recognising the devastating impact on the tight-knit island community, mental health services have been mobilised to support those affected.
The Crisis Response and Home Treatment Team can be contacted on 642860, while support for children and young people is available through the Talk service from Isle Listen on 679544.
St Christopher’s teams, known as ‘Streetwise’, will be providing additional support in Douglas during the upcoming TT races.
‘Extremely challenging’ for police
The investigation has been described as “extremely challenging” for Isle of Man Constabulary, with Chief Constable Foster appealing for calm as detectives conduct their investigation.
I would like to take this opportunity to appeal for calm and allow the investigation team to conduct a thorough and professional investigation,” he said.
The tragedy marks one of the darkest days in recent memory for the usually peaceful Isle of Man, where such violent incidents are virtually unheard of.
As the community reels from the loss of a young life, questions remain about how such a tragedy could unfold in broad daylight in this close-knit island community.
