THE search for a 55-year-old man who was missing for over a year has been stood down following the discovery of a body.
Ray Hosty was last seen in Headford, County Galway, on April 1st of 2024 and a huge search operation was launched in an effort to locate him after he went missing.
However, the massive operation was stood down on June 21 following the discovery of a body.
Gardai confirmed today that the remains are those of Ray Hosty.
A spokesperson said: “Following the discovery of human remains, the missing person appeal for 55-year-old Ray Hosty, who was reported missing from Headford, County Galway, on Monday 1st April 2024, has been stood down.
“No further action is required. An Garda Siochana would like to thank the media and public for their assistance.”
Ray’s heartbroken family has been involved in multiple searches for the beloved man since his disappearance 15 months ago and yesterday told how the recovery of his remains is a “bittersweet relief”.
In a heartbreaking social media post, Ray’s sister said: “On the 21st of June after 14 long months our brother Rays body was finally recovered from the water, it is a bitter sweet relief to finally have him home and at last we can lay him to rest, this has given us measure of peace.
“Words cannot express the depth of our grief or the complexity of emotions we are feeling, this has been a heartbreaking journey
“We wish to thank each and every single person who supported us, shared Rays story, but most of all the prayers that were said, they have now been answered.
“Your kindness has carried us through an unimaginable time. Funeral arrangements to follow.”
