A man has been arrested in Dublin in connection with the murder of Mary Ward, a 22-year-old mother who was found dead in her Belfast home last Tuesday. Though her body was discovered on 1 October, authorities believe she was killed around 25 September due to multiple neck wounds. Initially treated as a possible suicide, the case shifted to a murder investigation. The suspect, a 26-year-old man, was arrested after significant collaboration between the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) and the Gardaí.

Timeline of Events Leading to the Arrest

Mary Ward had reported an incident to the PSNI on 4 September, prompting their response and a suspect’s arrest in relation to that call. The suspect was later released, and further interactions took place between Ward and the police, including a phone call on 25 September. Detectives believe this may have been the date of her death. On 1 October, police discovered her body while attending her residence on Melrose Street for a separate, unrelated matter. Initially investigated as an unexplained death, the case was later classified as murder following a detailed forensic examination and post-mortem results.

Police Review of Procedures

The Assistant Chief Constable David Beck has confirmed that the PSNI is reviewing their handling of interactions with Ward, given the earlier reports she made to them. The investigation has been referred to the Northern Ireland Police Ombudsman to assess the PSNI’s decisions, responses, and risk assessments leading up to her death.

Violence Against Women in Northern Ireland

Mary Ward’s murder adds to a growing list of violent crimes against women in Northern Ireland. Over the last five years, more than 30 women and girls have been murdered. The Assistant Chief Constable expressed his dismay, noting that Ward was the fourth woman killed in just six weeks. This tragic trend has pushed authorities and politicians to prioritize the fight against violence targeting women and girls.

Gardaí Collaboration and Ongoing Investigation

The suspect in Ward’s murder was arrested by Gardaí detectives connected to the Garda National Bureau of Investigation. He is currently being held in a Dublin Garda station as both the Gardaí and PSNI continue their close collaboration to piece together the events that led to Ward’s tragic death. The investigation remains active, with authorities working to uncover further details surrounding the case.