Featured photo by Rory Mooney
Article Updated: 16:20
Detectives from the PSNI’s Major Investigation Team in Derry have launched a murder inquiry after the body of a woman was found at the scene of a fire.
The body was discovered in a ground floor apartment after fire services dealt with the early morning blaze in the Harvey Street area of Derry.
“A fire was reported within a Harvey Street address at around 4.15am today, Saturday 24th August,” police said.
“Crews from NI Fire and Rescue Service attended.
“A woman was then discovered in a ground floor flat. Sadly, she was pronounced dead at the scene.
“Investigating officers would ask anyone with information, or who may be able to help with the investigation, to call 101 quoting reference number 225 24/08/24 or submit a report online using the non-emergency reporting form via http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/.
“They are particularly keen to view any dash-cam or doorbell camera footage covering the area between 2am and 5am.
“You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at http://crimestoppers-uk.org/.”
The suspicious death has prompted a number of road closures in the area.
Waterloo Street is closed as far down the hill as High Street. Chamberlain Street is partially closed also.
Police Derry City and Strabane say: “We understand the disruption that this will cause and ask the local community for their patience as we deal with this incident.”
SDLP Foyle MLA Mark H Durkan said: “Our thoughts and prayers are with a family waking to the worst possible news this morning.
“Please, please come forward if you have any information at all that might help the police with their investigation.”