A holidaymaker who was stabbed to death in a popular tourist area has been named as Kathleen 'Katie' Brankin from the Newtownabbey area.
A 53-year-old man, who is also a holidaymaker, has been arrested on suspicion of murder following the incident at a glamping site near Limavady. Police are continuing to question him.
PSNI Detective Chief Inspector John Caldwell said: “We received a report, just after 8.20pm (on Monday), that a woman had been stabbed at an outdoor accommodation site on Seacoast Road.
“Officers attended, along with colleagues from Northern Ireland Ambulance Service but, sadly, the woman was pronounced dead at the scene. She was 37 years old.
“A man, aged 53, was subsequently arrested on suspicion of her murder, and he remains in custody this morning.
“While our inquiries are at an early stage, I can confirm that both the victim and the man who was arrested were holidaymakers.
“We are not looking for anyone else in relation to this tragic death.”
Police had earlier said that a man in his 50s was injured in the incident.
Local representatives said the rural community had been left stunned by the death.
SDLP MLA Cara Hunter said: “I have spoken with local residents who have voiced their sympathies with the family, and it is really devastating because this is such a beautiful, welcoming area.
“We welcome thousands of visitors every year and something like this happening is unheard of. My thoughts are with the victim’s family and friends.”
East Derry DUP MP Gregory Campbell: “It is a very, very popular scenic tourist site. It is the main road between the north-west and the Causeway coastal road. Many, many tourists use this, and people on day trips.
“It appears that there has been a tragedy where one person has lost their life. Our thoughts would be with the family.
“I understand they were visitors to the area. At this stage the police are still trying to make contact with family members. Everyone will be grieving with the deceased.”
Police have also renewed their appeal for anyone with information, or who witnessed any suspicious activity, to contact the investigation team.
