Thursday 6 November 2025 11:44
ADOPTED Antrim man Tony Miskimmon has been fondly remembered by his loving family, a year after his tragic passing.
Originally from the Sailortown area of Belfast, the 74-year-old’s life was steeped in maritime heritage and he still travelled back to the city every weekend to visit the Docker’s Club and the American Bar’s ‘Saturday club’.
On November 2 2024, he had been on his way home from the bus stop, intending to call into Madden’s Bar when he came across an altercation on Station Road.
Police at the time said that shortly after 7.30pm, Mr Miskimmon was punched to the head, knocking him unconscious on Station Road.
He was taken to hospital for treatment for serious head injuries, but passed away on November 6.
A family statement issued to the Antrim Guardian to mark the anniversary of his death said: “Tony was a devoted Father, Grandfather, Brother, Uncle and friend.
“Everyone who had the pleasure of meeting him would describe him as a gentle giant. He was a well respected member of the Belfast, Isle of Man and Antrim communities which he proudly called home over his life. After serving as a seaman he spent the later years of his life working as a tattooist.
“He lived a quiet and peaceful life, with a keen interest in music and history, often spending his days watching classic films.
“Known for his flair for fashion, he was easily recognised around town wearing his trademark hats.
“Despite his years in numbers he remained young at heart, a vibrant soul whose spirit didn’t fit his age.
“Whilst his family and friends continue to grieve his loss, it is made even more difficult with the ongoing court proceedings reminding them of Tony’s untimely passing. We are hopeful that justice will be served in the coming months.”
In October 2025, Marcus Fleming, 22, of Cedarmount in Antrim, appeared at Belfast Crown Court from custody to be formally arraigned on three charges. When the court clerk put the charge of unlawfully killing Anthony Miskimmon on November 6, 2024, Fleming replied: ‘Not guilty’.
He entered guilty pleas to two charges of criminal damage to police vehicles on November 2 and November 3, 2024. The case was adjourned until November 28.