John’s father Billy announced the news in a brief social media post
John George
John George’s family arriving home from Spain into Belfast International Airport. Pic: Press Eye
The funeral of a Belfast man found dead in Spain last week will take place next week, the victim’s father has confirmed.
John George’s body was found last Tuesday in Rojales, around 40 minutes south of Alicante, under trees on a farm nearly three weeks after he was reported missing.
His disappearance on December 14 prompted a huge search, with supporters flying out to aid the family as they searched for their loved one’s remains.
John’s father Billy George has confirmed the 37-year-old’s funeral will take place next Friday.
“John’s funeral will take place next Friday, January 24,” he posted on his Facebook page.
“His body will be in his mother’s home on Monday. Everyone welcome. Thanks for your support.”
On Friday, a 32-year-old man was brought to court in Spain after being arrested as part of the murder investigation.
He has since been released on bail by an investigating judge pending an ongoing criminal probe, and denies involvement in the alleged murder.
John George’s family arriving home from Spain into Belfast International Airport. Pic: Press Eye
It comes after a solicitor for Mr George’s family said they were pleased with assurances given during a meeting with the PSNI in relation to the case.
In a statement given to the Belfast Telegraph shortly after the meeting, their solicitor Kevin Winters of KRW Law said: “Today we met with the PSNI together with the family to discuss the latest outworkings of the Spanish authorities’ investigation into the killing of Mr George.
“We are pleased to report that assurances were given on maintaining levels of communication with Spanish Police to access key information on the current status of their investigation.”
Mr Winters also confirmed the George family will meet again the PSNI in two weeks time to discuss any relevant updates.
Meanwhile in Spain, various tributes have been left at the scene where John George’s remains were recovered.
Photographs shared across social media show blue bouquet of flowers left near a fence in the Rojales area alongside pictures of the west Belfast man. Candles were also pictured at the scene.
O’Neill’s funeral directors, who are working alongside the George family in advance of Mr George’s funeral, have also opened a book of condolences for those wishing to leave a message for the family.
John George
Homecoming for family of Belfast man John George found dead in Spain