North Belfast Community Rallies to Support Family of Paul Mackin Jr

Friends and neighbours across North Belfast are rallying together to support the heartbroken family of Paul Mackin Jr, who tragically passed away in hospital following an assault in the New Lodge area. A local fundraiser has been set up to assist with funeral costs and ease the financial pressure on his family during this devastating ordeal.

Paul, aged 44, passed away on Wednesday following an incident at a property in Duncairn Parade on Monday, 20th July. Emergency services were called to the scene following a report of an assault, and Paul was taken to hospital, where he later died as a result of his injuries.

Following the incident, 41-year-old Thomas McCauley of Queens Parade in North Belfast appeared at Belfast Magistrates Court on Friday. He faces charges of murder, as well as additional charges of false imprisonment and grievous bodily harm against two separate women. A PSNI officer connected McCauley to the charges in court. No application for bail was made, and he was remanded into custody to appear before the court again on 21st August.

Close family friend Lisa Marie Quinn set up the appeal to offer practical support to Paul's grieving family, sharing that everyone in the community is heartbroken by the loss. Describing Paul as "the most soft-souled gentleman you could meet, with the biggest heart," she highlighted how crucial it is for friends and neighbours to wrap their support around the family so they do not have to worry about financial burdens while mourning their tragic loss.