03/10/2024
To assist in the search for Donal Armstrong, it has been suggested that residents of Eglinton help by monitoring the Lough Foyle shoreline along the Longfield Embankment. From the parking area at the end of Station Road, the distance is approximately 1.25 miles each way (so each direction is approx. 2.5 miles round trip). During low tide, it is possible to walk along the beach and the lower slopes of the embankment.
Daily low tide times will be added to this post.
Blue Foyle Search & Rescue vests are available in the Community Centre.
-Always go in pairs.
-Always check tide times.
-Always check weather.
Please take time to review the search guidelines from Foyle Search & Rescue, which are provided below.
Search Guidelines
Donal Armstong is 23, Thin Build, short fair hair with a reddish tinge, he was last seen wearing navy jacket with a white crest on the breast (ripped on the back right armpit), navy hoodie under the coat and an orange t-shirt below this, Black trousers, Blue trainers with brown soles (heel had light blue lines).
Your own personal safety is of the highest importance.
Please adhere to the following safety Guidelines when searching:
Always stay in a group of at least 2 and let someone know the area you are searching and notify them when you have completed your search.
Please wear appropriate clothing for the weather conditions(warm/waterproof clothing)
Please wear a high-vis vest/bib/jacket if possible, to enable you to be easily identifiable.
If you have access to a pole or brush shaft, please use it to test the ground in front of you.
Always carry a fully charged mobile phone.
Be careful along the river’s edge. Search between the river’s edge and high water line, not along the waters edge.
If you approach rocks or large trees, try to walk around, not over, unless this means going too close to the edge.
DO NOT walk on the Glar/mud. You may become stuck & need rescued.
DO NOT wade or enter the water.
DO NOT climb over any railings, under any circumstances.
DO NOT cross over onto, or walk along, Rail Tracks.
Check the tidal tables and weather forecast prior to commencing any search. If you need any advice on tides please contact Foyle Search & Foyle Search and Rescue
People who are searching are reminded that the river banks can be extremely hazardous after dark. If searching after dark, please stick to well lit-footpaths. We do not recommend searching in darkness.
After dark, please do not shine any light onto boats or skis carrying out search/recovery activity, as this reduces visibility of those on the water.
When searching along railings or on any of the Bridges DO NOT lean over the railings, as CCTV operators may not differentiate between a genuine searcher and a person who may be in need of help, requiring immediate activation of the emergency services.
On finding something:
In the event of finding any items of clothing etc. DO NOT TOUCH or remove. Please contact the PSNI on 101 who will in turn alert Foyle Search & Rescue 02871 313800.
If an item of interest is in the water, stay close enough to keep an eye on it but do not go any closer. If the object is moving, try and walk along with it. Contact 101 who will in turn alert Foyle Search. Tell the operator the direction the object is floating in. If possible follow the object until help arrives.
If you notice a body, do not go any closer or attempt to move. Dial 999 who will alert Foyle Search & Rescue. Give as much information as you can.
