Police have launched a murder investigation one week after a young woman was found dead in her south Belfast home.

22-year-old Mary Ward was found dead at her home on Melrose Street on Tuesday, October 1st.

Police believe she was last seen alive nearly a week earlier on Wednesday, September 25th.

They have now launched a murder investigation on the back of “extensive investigations by Detectives in Serious Crime Branch”.

The case has also been referred to the Police Ombudsman due to officers’ previous engagements with Mary.

A spokesperson said that while there is no suggestion of police criminality or misconduct, “we are nonetheless concerned about our organisational response”.

"Devastating"

“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 lead investigator PSNI Detective Chief Inspector Foreman.

“Whilst our investigation is at an early stage and we are working to establish the exact circumstances, we believe that Mary was last seen alive on Wednesday 25th September.

“We are keen to speak to anyone who may have seen or been in contact with Mary on or around that date.”

The head of the PSNI Public Protection Branch Detective Chief Superintendent Lindsay Fisher said Mary is the fourth woman to be murdered in the North in just six weeks.

Violence and loss

“This is absolutely appalling,” she said.

“Four families have been shattered forever by meaningless violence.”

She said the PSNI recently upgraded its action plan for gender-based violence to align it with its response to terrorism and organised crime.

“The level of violence and loss in Northern Ireland demands nothing less,” she said.

“We are absolutely determined that we will be relentless in our pursuit of the perpetrators.”

Anyone with any information on the case is urged to contact the PSNI, Crimestoppers or use the hyperlink Public Portal to upload any photos, CCTV or phone footage.