Imagine the horror of finding a loved one dead at their home. That’s exactly what happened to one woman in Ireland, and police officers can’t say for certain what happened to her.
Here’s what we know.
At a glance:
- Mary Ward, a 22-year-old mother, was found dead in her Belfast home on October 1, with police confirming she was murdered.
- A 26-year-old man was arrested in Dublin on suspicion of her murder, and investigations are ongoing.
- Tributes poured in for the young mother, with her family expressing their heartbreak and loss, while police call for more action against violence toward women.
Tributes have been pouring in for Mary Ward, a 22-year-old mother who was tragically found dead in her home in Belfast on October 1. The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) determined three days later that she had been murdered. Mary was last seen alive on September 25, having spent time in Dungannon, County Tyrone, and Belfast on that day.
Mary’s family shared emotional tributes online, describing her as “much-loved” and someone who will “always be remembered.” In their tribute, her grieving family added, “Mary will be loved and missed always by her heartbroken mother, son, sisters, brothers, and entire family circle.”
The investigation into Mary’s death led to the arrest of a 26-year-old man in Dublin, who is currently in custody on suspicion of her murder. While details remain scarce, PSNI Assistant Chief Constable Davy Beck expressed his deep condolences to Mary’s family, acknowledging their unimaginable grief. He also stressed the need for urgent action, noting that Mary is the fourth woman to be murdered in Northern Ireland within six weeks.
Assistant Chief Constable Beck also confirmed that Mary had reported an assault on September 4. A suspect was arrested and questioned in relation to that incident. However, Beck highlighted the importance of reviewing how the police handled the case, particularly the risk assessment and the decisions made following the initial report.
Detective Chief Inspector Foreman, leading the murder investigation, emphasized that officers are still working to establish the exact circumstances of Mary’s death. He urged anyone who had seen or been in contact with Mary around September 25 to come forward. The PSNI has pledged to be “relentless” in their pursuit of those responsible for such crimes, as they continue to provide support to Mary’s devastated family. Mary Ward’s tragic death has sparked wider concerns about violence against women, with many calling for stronger measures to prevent further loss of life.