Zak Hughes, 29, of Ardglen Place in Belfast, has been jailed for a minimum of 20 years after admitting to the murder of his on-off partner Sarah Montgomery and the destruction of their unborn child. The 27-year-old mother of two was killed in Donaghadee in June 2025 while 32 weeks pregnant.
Court sentencing and judge's remarks
Handing down the sentence, Madam Justice McBride told Hughes: "You are guilty of the brutal, completely unjustified murder of a defenceless, heavily pregnant mother. When she confronted you with your lies and deception you relentlessly and savagely beat her to death."
"When she screamed out for mercy, you continued to strike her at least 59 times until you killed her and her unborn child."
The judge noted the public had been appalled by the killing, describing it as "yet another femicide in a long line of femicides committed in this jurisdiction". She added that Ms Montgomery was "a much-loved 27-year-old mother of two young children, a devoted sister, a granddaughter, and a great niece who brought much joy and happiness".
Investigation and aftermath
Detective Sergeant Jennifer Stevenson said Ms Montgomery was found unresponsive the day after the attack and pronounced dead at the scene. She stated that after the assault, Hughes stopped at a shopping centre, bought new clothes and shoes, and changed in public toilets before disposing of evidence, including Ms Montgomery's mobile phone and house keys.
"Despite his initial denial, thanks to our investigation, in which we worked closely with colleagues in the Public Prosecution Service, Hughes finally admitted his guilt," the detective said.
Stevenson described the case as "a totally distressing case of domestic homicide" and encouraged anyone affected by abuse to speak to police. She added that Ms Montgomery's family had asked for privacy as they grieve, and that her thoughts remained with them.
