Belfast, October 8, 2024—Police have launched a murder investigation following the death of 22-year-old Mary Ward, who was found dead at her home on Melrose Street, Belfast, last Tuesday.
The discovery was made by police officers, and on Monday night, detectives from the Serious Crime Branch formally announced the investigation.
Detective Chief Inspector Foreman, who leads the Major Investigation Team, expressed condolences to Ward’s family, describing the immense grief they are experiencing.
“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,” said DCI Foreman.
He confirmed that specialist trained family liaison officers are working closely with the family to provide support during this difficult time.
Although the investigation is still in its early stages, DCI Foreman stated that police believe Ward was last seen alive on Wednesday, September 25.
Authorities are urging anyone who may have seen or been in contact with her around that time to come forward with any information, no matter how minor it may seem.
“We are keen to speak to anyone who may have seen or been in contact with Mary on or around that date,” Foreman said. He encouraged those with information to contact the police via 101 or submit information online at the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) website.
The public can also anonymously provide details to the independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 or visiting their website.
The police have further requested any relevant photos or footage, including CCTV, mobile phone, or dashcam footage, to be uploaded through the Major Incident Public Portal.
In response to the killing, Detective Chief Superintendent Lindsay Fisher, head of the Public Protection Branch, condemned the violence. “Mary Ward is the fourth woman to be murdered in Northern Ireland in just six weeks,” Fisher said. “This is absolutely appalling. Four families have been shattered forever by meaningless violence.”
Fisher highlighted the PSNI’s revised Tackling Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) Action Plan, which now treats this type of violence with the same urgency as terrorism and organised crime. “The level of violence and loss in Northern Ireland demands nothing less. We are absolutely determined that we will be relentless in our pursuit of the perpetrators,” Fisher added.
The case has also been referred to the Office of the Police Ombudsman due to prior contact between Ward and the PSNI. Although there is currently no indication of individual criminality or misconduct, the PSNI stated it is concerned about its organisational response.
The investigation remains ongoing, with police continuing their efforts to uncover the circumstances surrounding Ward’s death.
