Murder probe launched after ‘brutal and senseless’ death of Banbridge woman

Officers and ambulance crews provided medical treatment at the scene, but Cummings was pronounced dead shortly afterwards.

A post-mortem examination will take place in due course to determine the cause of death.

Karen Cummings was found dead at the Co Down property

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Handout photo issued by the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) of Karen Cummings who died at a house in Banbridge

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A police cordon at the scene in the Laurel Heights area of Banbridge

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Cordons remain in place and local residents will continue to see an increased police presence in the area through the rest of the evening.

Cummings was described as a "devoted mummy" to her children Curtis and Zara in a death notice posted on Sunday afternoon.

She worked as a paediatric nurse at Daisy Hill Hospital and was the cherished daughter of Margarita and stepdaughter of Andrew.

Her heartbroken family has asked for privacy "as they navigate the devastating and tragic loss of Karen."

The Laurel Heights area of Banbridge

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Another friend said they were "absolutely devastated," adding: "My heart is so sore right now. Karen Cummings was one of the best girls I've ever met."

Superintendent Green said: "Our thoughts are with Ms Cummings' family and friends as they struggle to come to terms with what has happened."

Alliance Party Deputy Leader Eóin Tennyson said the community was "reeling" from the "heartbreaking news." Upper Bann DUP MP Carla Lockhart urged the public to give officers space to conduct their investigation.

Sinn Féin councillor Kevin Savage said: "The local community is shocked and saddened by the death of this woman and I would appeal to anyone with information to bring it forward to the PSNI."