Trial date set for man accused of murdering Ballymena woman Chloe Mitchell

A Ballymena man accused of murdering 21-year-old Chloe Mitchell is to stand trial next year, a court has confirmed, reports BBC NI News.

Brandon John Rainey, 29, whose address was given as HMP Maghaberry and who is formerly of James Street in Ballymena, is charged with murdering Ms Mitchell in June 2023.

He is also accused of attempting to prevent “the lawful and decent burial of a deceased body” on the same date.

The remains of Ms Mitchell were discovered several days after she went missing in Ballymena in June last year, sparking a major community search effort.

At Belfast Crown Court on Friday, Rainey – who denies both charges and remains on remand – appeared for a mention hearing.

Defence barrister Neil Connor KC told Madam Justice McBride that psychiatric reports from both the prosecution and defence have now been submitted. He also indicated the trial is expected to last around four weeks.

Following this update, Madam Justice McBride confirmed the trial is scheduled to begin on 23 February 2026, with the case re-listed for a further mention on 7 November 2025.