The First Minister and Deputy First Minister led tributes to 27-year-old Sarah Montgomery, who died following an incident at a property in Donaghadee.
At around 2.15pm on Saturday, police were informed that Ms Montgomery had suffered a serious injury and was unconscious at a home in the Elmfield Walk area of the town.
Paramedics arrived at the scene to administer medical care. However, the PSNI confirmed she was pronounced dead at the scene.
On Sunday, police confirmed they have begun a murder inquiry into her death and have arrested a 28-year-old man on suspicion of murder.
The tragic passing of the young mother has prompted widespread sympathy from well-wishers, advocacy groups and friends.
Alex Houston, who attended the same tech as Ms Montgomery, described her as a “lovely person”.
“She was an absolutely lovely person and very down to earth,” she told this newspaper.
Tributes also came from the local church community, who said the death had left the local area shocked, as they urged the town to rally in support of the family.
Pastor Stephen Graham of the Lighthouse Church in the town said their “thoughts and prayers” are with the family at this time.
“We only heard that news after our church service. I was unaware until someone came to me afterwards,” said Pastor Graham.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the family at this difficult time. If the church can assist them in any way, they can let us know.”
Sarah Montgomery (27)
Street sealed off as police investigate death of woman
Ms Montgomery’s death comes at a time when violence against women and girls is in the spotlight.
First Minister Michelle O’Neill said her death was “heartbreaking news”.
“A young woman with her whole life ahead of her, taken in the most devastating way,” she said.
“Another family left shattered. Two children left without their mummy.
“Ending violence against women and girls must be a priority for every single person right across our society.
“We all have a role to play in ending the scourge of misogyny and violence.”
Forensics at the scene. Credit: Press Eye
Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly said “my heart breaks for Sarah”.
“Just horrifying – another woman murdered,” she said.
“We know the work to tackle violence against women and girls will require a long term approach, but I am so angry at every single murder and act of violence. It must stop.”
North Down MP Alex Easton said it was “absolutely horrible” news.
“There’s two small kids without a mum and who knows what the future holds for them,” he said.
“Certainly I hope the local community will help them. It’s an absolutely tragedy, just appalling.”
Mr Easton said the community was “just gutted” as the news emerged.
“She was a lovely, quiet individual and for this to happen in the local area is just a complete shock for everybody,” he said.
He added: “Donaghadee is a close-knit and caring community, and I know local people will be shocked and saddened by this news.
“I would urge anyone with information that may assist the police investigation to come forward. I will continue to liaise with the relevant authorities and offer any support I can.”
Police and forensics at the scene of a sudden death in the Elmfield Walk area of Donaghadee on June 29th 2025 (Photo by Kevin Scott)
DUP MLA Stephen Dunne said the incident is “horrific” and will leave many “trying to come to terms with this loss”.
“I am deeply shocked and saddened by the devastating news of the death of Sarah Montgomery, a young mother whose life was tragically cut short in Donaghadee,” said the North Down MLA.
“My thoughts and heartfelt sympathies are with Sarah’s family, her two young children, and all those who knew and loved her.
“This horrific incident has shocked the entire local community, and I know many will be grieving and trying to come to terms with this loss.
“I would urge anyone affected to seek support and to come together in compassion at this difficult time.
“I am aware that a police investigation is ongoing, and I would encourage anyone who may have any information to come forward and assist the PSNI in their enquiries.
“This tragedy, again, unfortunately, highlights the need to continue working together to ensure that every person, especially women and girls, feel safe in their homes and in their communities.”
DUP Councillor Eddie Thompson also said he was in “total shock.”
“I learned about this incident this morning, and I am in total shock. Shocked that something like this could happen in Donaghadee,” he said.
“I am sure everyone in the town is feeling the same at this time, and I offer my sympathies to the family.
“I am shocked that this happened but not surprised, this sort of incident is growing and is a definite problem.”
Sarah Montgomery
Fellow Donaghadee councillor, John Hennessy, said his thoughts are with the family.
“This is a devastating incident and our local community is in complete shock,” said the Alliance councillor.
“My thoughts go out to Sarah’s family and loved ones, especially her children.
“I urge anyone who has information on this incident to contact police with it immediately.”
Councillor James Cochrane urged the public to allow police to continue with their enquiries.
“I would like just to say that my thoughts are with the family upon hearing this shocking news,” he said.
“I would urge the public, if they have information, to contact police, and to allow the PSNI to carry out their investigations.”
As the news broke, calls were also made to declare violence against women and girls as a national crisis in Northern Ireland.
The Women’s Rights Network NI said they were “outraged” over the death of the mother, coming just weeks after 71-year-old Marie Green was found dead at her home in north Belfast.
In that case, her son Lewis Green (31), also of Shore Road, was remanded into custody accused of her murder.
In a statement, the group said: “The WRN NI is devastated and outraged at the murder of Sarah Montgomery, a 27-year-old pregnant mother of two.
“Police have launched a murder investigation following this horrific crime.”
They added that only a “few short weeks ago” WRN NI had issued a statement mourning the tragic death of Marie Green.
“We offered our heartfelt condolences then, and today we stand once again with another grieving family and a devastated community,” the statement continued.
“Enough is enough. Another woman is dead, another community shattered.
“Sarah was just 27 years old, a mother of two, and pregnant at the time of her death. Two lives have been stolen.”
WRN NI said that the deaths are not “isolated tragedies” but part of “a predictable pattern of violence against women that continues to cost lives in Northern Ireland.”
“Northern Ireland must treat violence against women and girls as a national emergency. Every day of inaction puts more women at risk.”
Detective Chief Inspector Tom Phillips said his “thoughts are with Sarah’s family during this incredibly difficult time — as they struggle to come to terms with what has happened”.
“Sarah’s family are being supported by specially trained officers as the investigation continues.”
Chief Inspector Yvonne McManus added: “We understand this news will cause shock and concern within the community. Local people will see our officers in and around the area — with cordons still in place today.
“Should anyone have any concerns or want to ask for help or advice, please speak to us. We want to help.
“We recognise the profound impact that violence against women and girls has on individuals, families and wider society.
“Addressing this issue remains a key priority, and we are committed to engaging directly with the local community to offer support, build trust, and help people feel safe.”