The police in New York did not initially confirm or deny reports when a dismembered body was found on a beach in Queens, but McDonnell's family has now announced his passing.

McDonnell had been missing since November 4, when he went for a bike ride in his Bedford-Stuyvesant neighborhood. His bike was later discovered locked up at Fort Tilden Beach in Queens, approximately a mile or two away from Breezy Point Beach where the headless and armless body was found on Friday.

The family released a notice on RIP.ie, expressing their grief and sadness. "He will be very sadly missed by his loving parents, Maureen and Nicky, his sister Louise, and niece Eva. He leaves behind an extended family, including his aunt, uncles, cousins, and many dear friends, LJ, as well as his colleagues in Ireland, the USA, and around the world," the notice stated.

Earlier, friends had informed the police about a distinctive birthmark found on the body in Queens, which matched one that McDonnell had. Additionally, red Adidas swimming trunks, identical to a pair frequently worn by McDonnell during his swimming expeditions, were also found.

Ross McDonnell, originally from Dublin, Ireland, was highly regarded in the film industry. He had recently won an Emmy Award in 2021 for his outstanding cinematography on Showtime's series, The Trade. His talent was further recognized in 2022 when he won the Outstanding Cinematography: Documentary Emmy for his work on Matthew Heineman's Covid documentary, The First Wave.

Having lived and worked in the United States for several years, McDonnell will be remembered for his contributions to the world of filmmaking. His untimely death has left a void in the hearts of those who knew and admired him.

As the investigation into McDonnell's death continues, his family and friends mourn the loss of a talented individual whose impact extended far beyond his film work.