Derry left reeling after the murder of young mum and ‘shining light’ Amy

A flood of tributes have been paid to cherished young Derry woman and ‘shining light’ Amy Doherty from those who knew and loved her in a city still reeling from the shock of her murder.

Numerous tributes have been paid to the much-loved mother-of-two by devastated friends who have described Amy as a special person with a huge heart, sparkling personality and wit, and as a treasured friend.

A murder investigation led by the PSNI’s Major Investigation Team is underway after Amy was found severely wounded at a house in Summer Meadows Mews in Derry’s Waterside area on Saturday morning and passed away a short time later.

A 30-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder.

Detective Inspector Michelle Griffin from the Police Service’s Major Investigation Team said: “Officers attended a property in the Summer Meadows Mews area of the city at around 10.20am and located an injured woman at the scene. She was taken to hospital by our colleagues in the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service where she sadly died.”

“A 30-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder. Our thoughts are with her family and loved ones, who are left trying to come to terms with this shocking loss.”

The Mayor of Derry Ruairí McHugh summed up the sentiment and thoughts of people across the city and wider district.

“I am deeply shocked and saddened by the tragic murder of a young mother. On behalf of the people of Derry and surrounding areas, I would like to extend heartfelt sympathy and condolences to her family and loved ones during this unimaginably difficult time.”

“No words can ease the pain of such a loss, but please be assured that the community stands with you in grief, support, and solidarity.”

Foyle MP Colum Eastwood, said the “whole city is devastated and there's a genuine sense of shock”.

“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.”

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In a beautiful tribute that brought to the fore the person Amy was, one friend posted that she was “honestly the kindest, funniest girl I have ever met, and you had the biggest heart that would do anything for anyone.”

“A shining light, a good person to talk to when you needed someone. You were a gem and the funniest person, the craic was always had with you.”

“She lived life like everyone should – and if the world were full of Amys, the world would be a beautiful place. Rest in peace, you beautiful soul, I will never forget you.”

Another friend wrote of how a “whole town is in mourning, shock and anger”.

“This should never have happened. I have no words.”

Another friend posted: “RIP beautiful Amy. Can’t find the words, look after everyone who loved you so much. You were something else! Some amazing wee memories of laughter. R.I.P. angel.”

Yet more friends spoke of how Amy was “the most beautiful girl, with the biggest heart,” someone who was “forever making me laugh” and how she was “such a sweetheart”, and someone people were “proud to call a friend”.

Detectives have urged anyone with information to make contact.