Woman arrested over 1999 Ballykelly murder of Jonathan Cairns

By David Hunter

A woman has been arrested in connection with the murder of Jonathan Cairns in Ballykelly more than twenty years ago. 

The 18 year old was beaten to death near his home in Loughamore Road in the early hours of the morning on April 25th 1999.

His body was found in a shallow grave several hours later during searches. 

A 44 year old woman was arrested in Dungiven this morning, and has been taken to Belfast for questioning. 

Detective Inspector Adrian Brown said: “I continue to appeal for information in relation to Jonathan’s murder. For over 20 years, Jonathan’s family and friends have suffered intolerable grief and they deserve answers.

"I understand their desire to see justice done and I believe that people within the Ballykelly community have information that could assist my investigation.

“Some people were not prepared to come forward at the time for a variety of reasons but I am asking people to search their conscience and think again. Circumstances and loyalties may have changed over years and it is never too late to do the right thing."