Detectives investigating the murder of a woman in Derry at the weekend have named the deceased as 65-year-old Montserrat Martorell Elias.
Her body was found in a house in Harvey Street after reports of a fire, with police saying she uffered a horrific attack and sustained multiple injuries.
Police also say they are aware of online speculation which is extremely unhelpful and deeply distressing to Ms Elias’ family, and would ask people to refrain from engaging in this. The say they will investigate any posts online which could potentially prejudice judicial proceedings.
Investigations are ongoing, with police saying they want to speak with a white man, aged in his 30s, who was seen in the area wearing a grey jacket with hood up, blue jeans, trainers and a light coloured shirt between 1am and 2am.
PSNI Statement in full –
Detectives from the Police Service of Northern Ireland’s Major Investigation Team, investigating the murder of a woman in Derry/ Londonderry, have named the deceased as 65-year-old Montserrat Martorell Elias.
Detective Chief Inspector Anthony Kelly said: “A murder investigation was launched following the discovery of a body in a house in Harvey Street during the early hours of Saturday, 24th August. Crews from NI Fire and Rescue Service responded to reports of a fire at the house, along with NI Ambulance Service and our officers. Ms Elias was sadly pronounced dead at the scene.
“From our enquiries so far, we can tell you that the victim suffered a horrific attack and sustained multiple injuries.
“I am aware of online speculation which is extremely unhelpful and deeply distressing to Ms Elias’ family, and would ask people to refrain from engaging in this. We will investigate any posts online which could potentially prejudice judicial proceedings.”
Detective Chief Inspector Kelly continued: “Our detectives are working at full pace to establish exactly what happened. At this stage, we are keen to speak with a white man, aged in his 30s, who was seen in the area wearing a grey jacket with hood up, blue jeans, trainers and a light coloured shirt between 1am and 2am.
“My thoughts at this time are first and foremost with Ms Elias’ family and friends in Spain, who are left trying to come to terms with their loss.
“Our investigation is at an early stage and enquiries are ongoing. I am continuing to appeal to anyone who may have any information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, to contact detectives on 101. Please quote reference 225 24/08/24.”
A report can be submitted online using the non-emergency reporting form via http://www.psni.police.uk/
