The mother of two who was in her late 20s was “the nicest girl” according to neighbours.
Police confirmed a man aged in his 40s has been arrested on suspicion of murder and he currently remains in custody.
Mary Mcadorey
Community ‘deeply shocked’ as man arrested over suspected Newtownabbey murder
Police currently remain at the cordoned off property in Old Mill Drive and in an updated statement a spokesperson said they are “continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the death”.
“Enquiries are ongoing and a further update will be provided in due course,” they added.
It is understood a post mortem is taking place.
Mary Mcadorey
Community ‘deeply shocked’ as man arrested over suspected Newtownabbey murder
Speaking to the Belfast Telegraph at the scene, Taylor McGrann, a Sinn Féin councillor for the area, said it was “absolutely awful news”.
“All I can really say is my heart goes out to the family, and my thoughts are with all of the young woman’s family and friends at this time,” he said.
“She is a young woman in her 20s. She is a mother of two, she is from the local community and I believe she was living her in Old Mill Drive.”
Alliance councillor Billy Webb told the Belfast Telegraph: “I know the community of the Old Mill Drive very well and the general area very well and I know they will be absolutely shocked at what has happened.”
DUP councillor Matthew Brady said: “The community is deeply shocked and saddened by this tragic event.
“Our thoughts are with everyone affected as they come to terms with the loss.”
Police at the scene of a suspicious death in Newtownabbey (Photo by Kevin Scott)
In a statement, a PSNI spokesperson said: “Detectives investigating a report of a suspicious death in the Old Mill Drive area of Newtownabbey have this evening, Sunday 12th October, made an arrest.
“One man, aged 40, has been arrested on suspicion of murder. He remains in custody at this time, assisting with police enquiries. A further update will be provided in due course.”