Police say a body believed to be Noah Donohoe was found in a 1km long storm drain.
The 14-year-old’s disappearance mystified the people of Belfast after police and searchers failed to find any trace of the boy.
Superintendent Muir Clark said the operation to search the storm drain was ‘extremely challenging.’
Noah left his home in south Belfast at 5.30pm last Sunday and was seen on Ormeau Avenue, heading towards the city centre, 15 minutes later.
He was then seen on Royal Avenue and York Street, and again spotted at 5.57pm on North Queen Street.
A few minutes later, a boy matching Noah’s description was seen falling from a bicycle further up the road.
A last sighting of Noah was believed to have taken place around 6pm on York Road.
Police say there is no evidence to suggest foul play. An investigation into what happened to Noah is ongoing. It’s hoped a post mortem will provide more answers.
Supt Muir Clark says there are a number of rumours circulating about Noah’s disappearance which are ‘completely without foundation.’
The Lord Mayor of Belfast Alderman @frankmccoubrey has expressed his deepest condolences to the family of Noah Donohoe.
"I was so deeply saddened to hear the news about Noah today. I know that I speak for the entire city in expressing condolences to Noah’s family and friends."
— Belfast City Council (@belfastcc) June 27, 2020
A 26-year-old man is due to appear in court following a social media post concerning Noah.
The Lord Mayor of Belfast Alderman @frankmccoubrey has expressed his deepest condolences to the family of Noah Donohoe.
"I was so deeply saddened to hear the news about Noah today. I know that I speak for the entire city in expressing condolences to Noah’s family and friends."
— Belfast City Council (@belfastcc) June 27, 2020
Police say if users post distasteful content on social media, they will investigate.
The Lord Mayor of Belfast Alderman @frankmccoubrey has expressed his deepest condolences to the family of Noah Donohoe.
"I was so deeply saddened to hear the news about Noah today. I know that I speak for the entire city in expressing condolences to Noah’s family and friends."
— Belfast City Council (@belfastcc) June 27, 2020
Thoughts and prayers with the family of Noah Donohoe. https://t.co/bF59XDER3I
— John Blair (@JohnBlairMLA) June 27, 2020