A body has been recovered in Dromore during extensive multi-agency searches for missing man, 75-year-old Archibald (Archie) Boal.
Police confirmed on Saturday, February 14, that the body of a man had been located in the Dromore area.
“Whilst formal identification has not yet taken place, the family of Archibald Boal, who has been missing since Tuesday 20th January 2026, has been informed,” a PSNI spokesperson said.
Mr Boal was last seen in the Brewery Lane area of Dromore on the afternoon of Tuesday, January 20. Police had issued a public appeal the following day, saying they were concerned for his welfare.
The discovery followed a significant search operation along the River Lagan involving police and specialist volunteer teams on the ground and in the air.
Sky Watch NI said they had two teams out on Saturday at the request of the PSNI, using drones to search the river and surrounding floodplains in detailed sectors.
“While doing this one of the drones working on the upstream side of the launch site showed a body submerged in the river,” the organisation said.
“Our team alerted the Police Search Advisor who then coordinated the recovery.
“We are thankful to have been able to find the body of the missing person for the family and we are thinking of them at this sad time.”
The Search and Rescue Dog Association (SARDA) Ireland North confirmed their dog team had also been back in Dromore on Saturday, working alongside the PSNI and fellow Northern Ireland Search and Rescue (NISAR) colleagues from Community Rescue Service, Sky Watch NI and Lough Neagh Rescue.
“Searching for a male who has been missing from the Dromore area, teams continued coordinated search efforts in what has been a long and incredibly difficult few weeks for the family and friends involved,” SARDA said.
“After sustained multi-agency searches and the dedication of all those on the ground and air, a body has been recovered.
“Our thoughts, as always, are with those affected by this loss. We hope that, despite the heartbreak, the recovery may bring some measure of closure to loved ones who have endured weeks of uncertainty.
“We would like to acknowledge the professionalism, compassion and teamwork shown by all agencies involved throughout this search. Days like today remind us why collaboration, commitment and quiet determination matter so deeply within our community.”
Dromore councillor Paul Rankin extended his condolences following the development.
“Thoughts with the family and all impacted by this tragedy,” he said. “Thank you to the search and rescue team for their efforts over the past few weeks in very difficult weather and conditions.”
Police are expected to provide a further update once formal identification has taken place.
