Increased police presence after “brutal” murder

There is an increased police presence following the murder of a woman in Londonderry.

The body of the woman, whose identity the police have not yet established, was found in a flat on Harvey Street at around 04:15 BST on Saturday.

Police said the victim, who was said to be between 40 and mid-60s old, suffered a “horrific” death.

According to the police investigation team, she was attacked with a weapon before a ground floor apartment was set on fire.

Teams from the Northern Ireland Fire Service and Emergency Services went to the property where the discovery was made.

On location: BBC reporter Kevin Sharkey in Derry

The “brutal and gruesome” murder casts its shadow over the city this weekend.

At the heart of public concern is the question of who this woman was and who killed her.

The fact that police can only estimate the woman's age underscores the challenges investigators face in identifying the victim.

The police cannot yet confirm which type of weapon was used.

The apartment is part of a residential complex on Harvey Street.

There was a significantly increased police presence in the area throughout the weekend.

In order to identify the victim and find the murderer, the police now need the help of the public.

Ch Insp Anthony Kelly, of the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) major investigation team, said the victim suffered numerous injuries and he was convinced a weapon was used in the attack.

“Based on our investigation to date, we can advise you that the victim suffered a horrific attack and sustained numerous injuries,” said Ch Insp Kelly.

“We know this brutal murder has caused great concern, but we can assure you that we are working flat out to find out what happened and to catch those responsible for this heinous and evil crime.

“You will see an increased police presence in the city in the coming hours and days.”

Investigators are asking anyone with information to contact them.

They are particularly interested in viewing footage from dashboard or doorbell cameras covering the period between 02:00 (BST) and 05:00 (CET).