Over 60 of Chloe Mitchell's loved ones pack court as a jury is sworn in to try her accused killer

Brandon Rainey, 30, formerly of James Street, Ballymena, faces charges of murdering Chloe Mitchell on 3 June 2023 and attempting to obstruct her proper burial. He entered not guilty pleas at a 2024 hearing. The trial is due to open before the jury at Belfast Crown Court on Wednesday and is expected to last four to five weeks.

Mitchell, 21, was seen on CCTV footage in Ballymena town centre during the early hours of 3 June 2023; her body was found several days later.

Judge Mr Justice Fowler told jurors the case had attracted 'a degree of publicity' and that it was 'vitally important' they avoid all online and social media commentary.

Mitchell's brother Philip was among the family members present on Tuesday when the jury — comprising seven women and five men — was sworn in.