Murder investigation launched after death of woman pulled from burning car

Q Radio News/PA

A murder investigation has been launched following the death of a woman after a car fire in Co. Derry/Londonderry.

The blaze took place outside a house in the Quarry Road area of Knockloughrim, near Maghera, early on Tuesday morning.

The woman was aged in her 50s.

A 59-year-old man arrested on suspicion of murder is being treated for burn injuries.

BREAKING

Detectives have launched a murder investigation after the death of a woman following a fire in Knockloughrim near Maghera.

PSNI: pic.twitter.com/uwtVQAZUBB

— Q Radio News (@qnewsdesk) October 12, 2021

(Forensic officers arrive at the scene)

Detective Chief Inspector John Caldwell said:

“At around 5.40am this morning police received a report of a car on fire outside a house on the road.

“Police and the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service attended the scene and a woman, aged in her 50s, who was in the car was taken to hospital for treatment.

“Sadly, despite the best efforts of hospital staff, she succumbed to her injuries and died in hospital this evening.

“A 59-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder. He has also been taken to hospital for treatment for burn injuries.

“My investigation is at a very early stage and I would appeal to anyone who was on the Quarry Road early this morning and who witnessed anything to contact detectives on 101 quoting reference 227 12/10/21.”

DUP Assembly member for Mid-Ulster Keith Buchanan has expressed his condolences to the family "at this distressing time."

Sinn Féin MLA Emma Sheerin has said the local community is in shock.

She said: “The local community is in shock at the news that a woman has died in an incident between Knockloughrim and Gulladuff. 

“My thoughts are with the women’s family and friends at this extremely difficult time. 

“A police murder investigation is underway and I would call on anyone with any information which may help those inquiries to contact the PSNI.”