LISTEN: Community in shock after man stabs mum and girlfriend in Newtownabbey

Saturday, 20 March 2021 13:19

By Q Radio News

It's understood that a man stabbed his mother and girlfriend in an apparent double murder-suicide in Newtownabbey.

Police are investigating the discovery of three bodies at separate properties last night but say they are not looking for any suspects.

Officers had responded to a report of a knife incident in the Derrycoole Way area shortly before 11pm.

Local MP John Finucane says his thoughts are with family and friends of the victims.

“My first thoughts are with the family and friends of the women who were brutally killed last night, he said.

“It’s important to bear in mind that at the heart of this tragedy are grieving families.

“The local community are absolutely shocked and stunned by these killings.

“These brutal killings highlight once again the need to oppose all violence against women and the need for a Violence Against Women and Girls Strategy in the north.”

Police remain at the scene of separate properties after three bodies were found in Newtownabbey.

Detectives believe they are dealing with a double murder-suicide.

A stabbing incident was reported in the Derrycoole Way area just before 11pm last night. pic.twitter.com/2UNdCnWFoU
— Q Radio News (@qnewsdesk) March 20, 2021

Deputy Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey Noreen McClelland said the 'brutal' killing has left the local community stunned.

“People in Newtownabbey are in shock today following three deaths in what police believe was a double murder," she said.

“My thoughts and prayers this morning are with the friends and family of the two women who were brutally killed last night. This is a close knit community and I know that they will offer every support to those dealing with the pain of losing a loved one in such horrendous circumstances.

“Once again it appears that two women have lost their lives in a violent attack. How many more women have to die before our Executive takes action to address gender based violence?”

Detective Chief Inspector John Caldwell said police and the ambulance service were called to a residential property in the Derrycoole Way area where a woman was found dead.

“As officers carried out further inquiries, they attended a residential property in the Glenville Road area,” he added.

“An unconscious man was located in the property.

“Despite the provision of first aid, the man was pronounced dead.

“On searching the property, another deceased woman was located.

“While we have launched a murder investigation, we are not looking for anyone else in connection with these incidents which we believe are connected.”

Police have appealed for people with information to contact 101.