Detectives from the PSNI's Major Investigation Team have launched a murder investigation following the death of a woman in Co Armagh.
Police received a report of a house fire in the Church Street area of Portadown at around 2.15am this morning, Tuesday March 21. Officers attended alongside the Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service and the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service.
A 37-year-old woman was pronounced dead at the scene.
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"We have now launched a murder investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death," Detective Chief Inspector Rachel Wilson said.
"A number of residents have been evacuated from their homes in the area due to the fire. Church Road is currently closed to motorists and pedestrians and we would ask that the public avoid the area at this time.
"Our investigation continues, and I am appealing to anyone with information, or who witnessed anything untoward, to please get in touch.
"Likewise, if you have captured dash cam footage, please contact officers on 101 quoting reference number 92 of 21/03/23. Alternatively, information can be provided to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org."
Sinn Fein councillor Paul Duffy expressed his deepest sympathies and that of the community to the family and friends of the woman who died.
He has urged anyone with information to speak to police.
“Once again, another woman meets a violent death, this murder adds to a long and depressing list of such attacks against women,” he said.
“As a society we must all collectively do more to end violence against women.
“The police investigation into this killing is ongoing, and I would call for anyone with information which would assist police in bringing the culprit to justice to come forward.”
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