Northern Ireland

Video: Greenvale Hotel owner 'deeply shocked' by teens' deaths

Greenvale Hotel owner Michael McElhatton said he was "deeply shocked and saddened" by Sunday night's events
Greenvale Hotel owner Michael McElhatton said he was "deeply shocked and saddened" by Sunday night's events Greenvale Hotel owner Michael McElhatton said he was "deeply shocked and saddened" by Sunday night's events

Located just off the Drum Road on the outskirts of Cookstown, the Greenvale Hotel sits almost unnoticed in tree-lined grounds.

One of several hotels in the Co Tyrone town, it was generally regarded as a place of tranquility away from the bustle of nearby streets.

For decades it has operated a disco that has attracted people from across counties Tyrone, Derry and Armagh.

But while Cookstown has in the past been the scene of clashes between party-goers and police, particularly during the Troubles, the tension rarely spilled into the Greenvale.

Popular with families, the hotel is a regular venue for weddings and other events.

Read More:

  • Mother of one teenager tells of panic and horrific scenes
  • Police appoint major investigation team to conduct probe into Cookstown hotel tragedy
  • How the tragedy unfolded

It is owned by highly regarded local businessman Michael McElhatton who is well known for offering customers a personal service.

Speaking briefly to the media yesterday, he said he was "deeply shocked and saddened by the traumatic events" of Sunday night.

"We offer our heartfelt sympathies to the families and friends of the three young people who have lost their lives," he said.

He added that management and staff were assisting police in their investigations.

The victims: 

  • Morgan Barnard's father describes the family's devastation
  • GAA club leads tributes to footballer Connor Currie 
  • Lauren Bullock remembered as 'a shining light'