Janice R. Andrews
Archaeologists working for the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) have made a ground-breaking discovery in Bellaghy: an ancient bog body that is thought to be between 2,000 and 2,500 years old. The discovery was made during excavations that were sparked in October 2023 by the discovery of human bones on a wetland surface.
The investigation’s lead detective, Detective Inspector Nikki Deehan, described the cautious approach used during the initial examination because it was unclear if the remains were old or the product of a recent death. Although it was eventually found that there was no criminal participation, full forensic considerations were used to secure potential DNA evidence for criminal investigations.
The remains of a male who was between the ages of 13 and 17 when he died were discovered during the excavation. A tibia, fibula, humerus, ulna, and radius were among the first bones found. Subsequent examination revealed other bones, including a portion of the breastbone, a lower left arm, and a left femur. The skeleton, which included remnants of skin, finger and toenails, and possibly a kidney, was remarkably well-preserved.
The age and gender of the deceased were determined by a professional forensic anthropologist during a post mortem, but the cause of death is still unknown. The earliest radiocarbon dating method used in Northern Ireland estimated the deceased’s age to be between 2,000 and 2,500 years ago, or roughly 500 BC.
At Queen’s University Belfast’s 14Chrono Centre, radiocarbon dating was carried out. Dr. Alastair Ruffell underlined the discovery’s singularity as well as the lack of additional human remains in the region.
John Joe O’Boyle, the Chief Executive of the Forest Service, acknowledged the importance of the discovery and said that the ancient bog body would be sent to National Museums NI for additional analysis and preservation. O’Boyle expressed optimism that the finding will advance knowledge of the area’s prehistoric past.
The Police Service’s Body Recovery Team is leading this excavation, which highlights their proficiency in forensic archaeology and bone identification. An important chapter in the historical and cultural significance of Bellaghy and its hinterland will be closed when the remains are cared for under the direction of the National Museums NI, which is in charge of conserving archaeological finds.
