Mary Ward reported violent crime to police weeks before her murder

Mary Ward was found dead at her home in Belfast

The young mum's body was discovered at a property on Melrose Street, Belfast on October 1st.

The case has been referred to the Police Ombudsman because of the previous contact.

"In the weeks prior to her murder, Ms Ward reported to police that she had been the victim of a violent crime. Our investigation will focus on the police response to this report."

A spokesperson said, "Whilst at this time there is no suggestion of individual criminality or misconduct, we are nonetheless concerned about our organisational response."

Detectives are investigating the murder of the mum.

The PSNI said they're "absolutely determined" to solve this case.

This afternoon, Gardaí arrested a man in Dublin in connection with the murder of Belfast woman Mary Ward.

“The male is detained under Section 4 Criminal Justice Act 1984 at a Garda Station in Dublin."

Mary's sister Louise vowed to get justice for her beloved sister.

Writing on social media, her sister shared: "Mary we will get justice for you my girl. I never did think in a million years I would lose you. God will punish the ones that destroyed you."

PSNI Detective Chief Superintendent Lindsay Fisher extended her sympathies to Mary's family.

"This is absolutely appalling. Four families have been shattered forever by meaningless violence.

"The level of violence and loss in Northern Ireland demands nothing less. We are absolutely determined that we will be relentless in our pursuit of the perpetrators."

Mary Ward is the fourth woman to be killed in the last six weeks in Northern Ireland.

She is survived by her 8-month-old son.

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