There has been deep shock and sadness in Derry, following the murder of Amy Doherty.
The mother-of-two was found at a property in the Summer Meadows area of the city on Saturday morning.
She later died in hospital.
A 30-year-old man has been arrested in connection with her murder.
Friends of Amy paid a series of emotional tributes online following her senseless murder.
One described her as the “kindest, funniest girl” with “the biggest heart”. They added: “She lived life like everyone should – and if the world was full of Amys, the world would be a beautiful place.”
Another said: “I’m going to be lost without you. The best mummy and best friend. I’m heartbroken forever.”
Others recalled “a kind, beautiful girl who was always smiling”.
One friend wrote: “Rest in peace to the most beautiful girl and wonderful mummy to 2 beautiful kids. I will always remember how much she made me laugh. God bless to her family now.”
More than 30 women have died violently in Northern Ireland since 2020.
Local politicians have also expressed their shock and sadness at the murder of Ms Doherty.
SDLP Foyle MP Colum Eastwood called the murder a “scourge on our society” as he condemned the “absolutely horrendous news”.
“The whole city is devastated and there’s a genuine sense of shock,” he said.
“My thoughts are with the woman’s family and friends at this unimaginably difficult time. It’s the worst news that any parent or family member could receive and they’ll need the support of our whole community. I have no doubt that people will step up.”
Mr Eastwood added: “There’s no doubt that this will make women and girls across Derry, and the North, feel less safe.
“Incidents of violence like this have a chilling effect on a community and it’s an awful reminder that we have so much more to do to end this scourge on our society.
“I’ll work with people from every background to make that happen.”
Meanwhile local Sinn Fein MLA Ciara Ferguson said that this “unimaginable loss” marked the “latest act of violence against women and girls” in the North.
“Our heartfelt thoughts are with this woman’s loved ones as they face the unimaginable loss which this horrific crime has brought upon them,” she said.
“A young woman’s life was taken in the latest act of violence against women and girls.
“I appeal to anyone with information to bring it forward to the PSNI.”
Detectives from the PSNI’s Major Investigation Team launched a murder investigation following the death of Ms Doherty on Saturday morning.
Detective Inspector Michelle Griffin from MIT said: “Officers attended a property in the Summer Meadows Mews area of the city at around 10.20 am and located an injured woman at the scene.”
“She was taken to hospital by our colleagues in the NIAS where she sadly died.”
“A 30-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder and continues to be questioned.”
“Our thoughts are with her family and loved ones, who are left trying to come to terms with this shocking loss.”
“Our enquiries are continuing, and I am appealing to anyone with information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, to contact our officers on 101 quoting reference 469 – 21/03/26.”
Information can also be provided, with total anonymity, to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.
Shock and sadness after murder of Derry mum, Amy Doherty was last modified: March 22nd, 2026 by Contributor
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