Community in shock as Derry murder victim named locally

There is widespread shock across Derry this evening after it emerged that a young woman had been murdered.

The woman, named locally as Amy Doherty, was found dead at a home in the Waterside area of the city.

A 30-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder.

Detective Inspector Michelle Griffin said: “Officers attended a property in the Summer Meadows Mews area of the city at around 10.20am and located an injured woman at the scene.

“She was taken to hospital by our colleagues in the NI ambulance service where she sadly died.

“A 30-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder.

“Our thoughts are with her family and loved ones, who are left trying to come to terms with this shocking loss.”

Police inquiries are continuing.

Speaking at the scene SDLP Foyle MLA Mark H Durkan said there is "huge shock and sadness" in Derry today.

"There is huge shock and sadness right across the city at this heartbreaking and horrifying incident that occurred this morning,” Mr Durkan said.

“People are absolutely shocked and devastated and nobody more so than the family and friends of the young woman who so tragically and so cruelly lost her life.” 

Sinn Féin Foyle MLA Ciara Ferguson said: “Our heartfelt thoughts are with this woman’s loved ones as they face the unimaginable loss which this horrific crime has brought upon them.

“A young woman's life was taken in the latest act of violence against women and girls and I appeal to anyone with information to bring it forward to the PSNI.

“The Executive’s Strategic Framework to End Violence Against Women and Girls sets out how it aims to tackle this scourge in our society. But we must all do more to confront the causes and cultures behind this violence and to do everything possible to bring the harm and abuse of women to an end.”