Friends and family marked the first anniversary of Michael McDonagh’s death at the weekend with a vigil and floral tributes outside the Parkdean resort in Camber. The father of six, who was 53 and from London, died at the site on Lydd Road after police were called to an altercation.
Speaking after the vigil on Saturday August 5, Michael McDonagh’s daughter Erin said: “We want justice for my father! They not only took away a father. They took away a husband of 32 years, and a grandfather. Our life's (sic) will never be the same. My mother lost her lifelong partner. They were with each other since they were kids."
So far there have been no charges. Of the seven people arrested on suspicion of Michael McDonagh’s murder, six have been released under investigation. The seventh has been released with no further charges.
Speaking to the BBC, a spokesperson for Camber Sands Holiday Park said: "We recognise that this a difficult time for the McDonagh family and we will continue to assist the authorities in this matter."
Sussex Police say they’ve taken over 150 statements so far and are still appealing for witnesses to come forward. Detective Chief Inspector Emma Vickers said "We have been conducting a thorough, complex investigation into the death of Michael McDonagh since the tragic events of 5 August, 2022. Our thoughts remain with Michael's family, who are being supported by specialist officers while we search for the answers they deserve. A dedicated team has completed a painstaking review of CCTV footage and 150 statements as we look to establish the full facts of what happened that evening.”
Anyone with any information is being asked to call 101 quoting Operation Molton. Relevant video footage can also be uploaded online to the Major Incident Public Portal.
