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Family tribute to Camber Sands 'murder' victim Michael McDonagh

The family of a father-of-six killed at a holiday park have paid tribute to "the centre of their world".

Michael McDonagh died following an altercation at the Parkdean site in Camber Sands, near the border with Romney Marsh on Friday.

Father of six Michael McDonagh was killed on Friday. Photo: Sussex Police
Father of six Michael McDonagh was killed on Friday. Photo: Sussex Police

Seven people have been arrested on suspicion of murder after the 53-year-old was declared dead at the scene.

The London resident had been at the park with his wife and children for a family holiday when the incident happened – reportedly during a screening of a football match between Arsenal and Crystal Palace.

One of his children said that the family was left with "broken hearts and unanswered questions".

They said: “On Saturday morning we found out we lost our father Michael McDonagh.

"Michael was a loving and supportive husband of 32 years and a father of six, taken from us whilst on a family holiday.

Mr McDonagh died following an altercation at a screening of a football match. Photo: Facebook
Mr McDonagh died following an altercation at a screening of a football match. Photo: Facebook

“His family meant everything to him. He came away to make memories with his wife and children and instead we are walking away with broken hearts and unanswered questions.

“It's impossible to put into words how we all feel. Our dad was the centre of our world and the life and soul of every party.

“Not only did my dad make such a huge impact on our family but also to countless people who knew him throughout his life. He will be greatly missed.

“Michael was a kind-hearted man who died too young, leaving behind all those that loved him.”

All seven people arrested in connection with Mr McDonagh's death have been released on conditional bail.

Parkdean holiday park at Camber Sands. Photo: Google Street View
Parkdean holiday park at Camber Sands. Photo: Google Street View

Detective Chief Inspector Emma Vickers said: “My condolences go out to Michael’s family following Friday night’s tragic events.

“A complex and fast-moving investigation is underway to establish precisely what happened and identify those responsible.

“I understand incidents such as these can have a profound impact on the wider community and I would like to offer my assurances that this was an isolated incident and we are working tirelessly to find out the full circumstances."

Anybody who witnessed the incident or has any information which could help with the investigation is asked to contact police online via the Sussex Police website, or by calling 101, quoting Operation Molton.

Any relevant images or video footage can also be uploaded by the public to the Sussex Police section of the Major Incident Public Portal, under Op Molton.

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