Police have confirmed that a 39-year-old woman and her eight-year-old daughter were murdered in a double murder suicide incident in Ballymena, Northern Ireland. The body of a 41-year-old man was also found at the scene, with police treating his death as a sudden death.
Discovery of Bodies
The three family members, originally from Poland, were found dead at a property on the Old Cullybackey Road in Ballymena on Monday, 13 July. Police attended the scene at around 9am after receiving reports. The bodies of the 41-year-old man, the 39-year-old woman, and the eight-year-old child were discovered inside the home.
Detective Inspector Dickson of the Police Service of Northern Ireland's Major Investigation Team confirmed that the woman and her daughter were murdered. He stated, "It's with great sadness that we confirm a woman, aged 39, and her young daughter, aged eight, were murdered." The investigation into the circumstances of the man's death is ongoing.
Police Appeal for Information
Detectives have reiterated their appeal for information. Detective Inspector Dickson said, "Our investigation into their murder, along with the sudden death of the 41-year-old man, will continue. I'm keen to offer assurance that there is no ongoing risk to the public, and we are not looking for anyone else in connection with our investigation."
The PSNI stated that they are not seeking anyone else in connection with the deaths. Anyone with information is asked to contact detectives on 101, quoting reference 482 of 13/07/26, or provide information online at www.reporting.psni.police.uk/appeals. Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.
Community Impact
Detective Inspector Dickson expressed his condolences, saying, "My thoughts at this time are with family members and friends, who have understandably been left both shaken and heartbroken. This absolute tragedy has saddened the lives of so many, from loved ones to the wider community, and will be felt for many years to come." He added that family members have asked for privacy at this difficult time.
Flowers have been left outside the property in Ballymena as a mark of respect. For mental health support, the Samaritans can be contacted on 116 123, by email at jo@samaritans.org, or via their website at samaritans.org.
