Investigation Launches Over Mary Ward Murder

The Police Ombudsman has launched an investigation into the murder of Mary Ward.

In the weeks leading up to her death, Mary had reported to the police that she was a victim of a violent crime.

The body of 22-year-old Mary Ward was found by police at her home on Melrose Street last Tuesday.

Police said she is the fourth woman murdered in Northern Ireland in the last six weeks.

SDLP Leader Claire Hanna MP has said that an urgent and focused response is needed to tackle violence against women and girls. South Belfast and Mid Down MP Ms Hanna said: "It is so tragic that a young life has been cut short in this manner and my heart goes out to the friends and family of Mary Ward. I would urge anyone with any information about this incident to contact police and help with their investigation.

"This is another awful reminder of the shocking level of violence against women and girls that causes such harm in our society. That this is the fourth murder of a woman in just six weeks underscores the failure to get to grips with the causes and prevention of this issue, one that leaves Northern Ireland one of the most dangerous places in Europe to be a woman.

"There must be a societal response to violence against women in girls, in our homes, in our workplaces and on our streets. No woman should have to live with the daily threat of violence or have their lives ended in this way."