Police launch murder investigation following death of woman

Karen Cummings, 40, was found unconscious with a serious head injury

Police have launched a murder investigation following the death of a woman in Banbridge, County Down.

Emergency services were called to an incident in Laurel Heights shortly after 18:00 GMT on Saturday.

Karen Cummings, 40, was found unconscious with a serious head injury, police say.

The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service provided medical treatment but Ms Cummings was pronounced dead at the scene.

Police cordoned off the area in Laurel Heights on Saturday night

'Brutal and senseless'

Two men have been arrested in connection with the investigation.

A 42-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of murder at the scene on Saturday and remains in police custody.

A second man, aged in his 30s, was arrested in the local area on Sunday, also on suspicion of murder, and is in custody.

Police say investigations are still at a very early stage and they "are working to establish the full circumstances that led to this brutal and senseless murder".

It is understood searches have been carried out in nearby bushes and drains.

Forensic officers examined the scene on Sunday

Local MLA Diane Dodds said the incident was extremely sad and shocking.

"I have been speaking to our local inspector this morning and they want to reassure the public that they don't expect any risk to the public in general but there will be an increased police presence to give reassurance to locals in the town," she said.

Diane Dodds is an MLA for the local area

'A Christmas tragedy'

Cllr Joy Ferguson says there is "deep, deep shock" in the community

Cllr Joy Ferguson told BBC News NI: "This is a tragedy and at the heart of that tragedy is a family who have lost a loved one.

"And as we approach Christmas this makes it even more difficult."

She urged anyone with information to contact police.