Woman’s body found after Londonderry flat fire as ‘major’ investigation launched into ‘suspicious’ death

A “major” police investigation has been launched after woman was found dead following a fire at a flat in Londonderry.

Firefighters attended after reports of a fire at a property in Harvey Street at 4.15am on Saturday.

Police said they are investigating the circumstances around the “suspicious” death.

The woman, who was found in a ground-floor flat, was pronounced dead at the scene.

SDLP MLA Mark H Durkan said it was “harrowing and heartbreaking” news.

He said: “Our thoughts and prayers are with a family waking to the worst possible news this morning.

“Please, please come forward if you have any information at all that might help the police with their investigation.”

Officers say Waterloo Street and Chamberlain Street remain closed.

People have been advised to avoid the area.

Anyone with information is asked to call 101 quoting reference number 225 24/08/24.

Or to contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or on its website.

Police are in particular asking those with dash-cam or doorbell camera footage in the area between 2am and 5am to get in touch.

A police spokesperson said: “A fire was reported within a Harvey Street address at around 4.15am on Saturday and attended by crews from NI Fire and Rescue Service.

“A woman was then discovered in ground floor flat. Sadly, she was pronounced dead at the scene.

“Investigating officers would ask anyone with information, or who may be able to help with the investigation.”