A MURDER investigation has been launched after a 22-year-old woman was found dead in Belfast.
Mary Ward was found dead by officers at her home on Melrose Street in south Belfast on Tuesday, October 1.
PSNI Detectives attached to the Serious Crime Branch confirmed late last night that a murder investigation has been launched following “extensive” investigations.
Detective Chief Inspector Foreman, who is leading the Major Investigation Team investigating the killing, said that the 22-year-old had not been seen since September 25.
He said: “Our thoughts at this time are first and foremost with Mary’s loved ones, who have been devastated and are struggling to come to terms with this tragic loss.
“Specialist trained Family Liaison Officers continue to work with the family supporting them through this difficult period.
“Whilst our investigation is at an early stage and we are working to establish the exact circumstances, we believe that Mary was last seen alive on Wednesday 25th September.
“We are keen to speak to anyone who may have seen or been in contact with Mary on or around that date.”
Head of Public Protection Branch Detective Chief Superintendent Lindsay Fisher said the PSNI are “absolutely determined” that they will be “relentless in our pursuit of the perpetrators”.
Fisher said: “Mary Ward is the fourth woman to be murdered in Northern Ireland in just six weeks.
“This is absolutely appalling. Four families have been shattered forever by meaningless violence.
“As a Police Service we recently revised our Tackling Violence against Women and Girls (VAWG) Action Plan and adopted the new national framework to align our response to this violence with that of terrorism and serious and organised crime.
“The level of violence and loss in Northern Ireland demands nothing less.”
The case has been referred to the Office of the Police Ombudsman “following a review” of the PSNI’s previous engagement with Mary.
A statement released late last night said: “Whilst at this time there is no suggestion of individual criminality or misconduct, we are nonetheless concerned about our organisational response.”
Members of the public who have any information have been to come forward.
Detective Chief Inspector Foreman said: “I am asking anyone with any information, no matter how small or insignificant a detail may seem, to please contact us by calling 101. You can also submit information online.”
“Information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers, with total anonymity on 0800 555 111 or online.”
Photos and footage, including CCTV, mobile phone or dash cam footage, can be shared with police through the Major Incident Public Portal.
The hyperlink Public Portal Public Portal is specific to this appeal.
