Murder inquiry launched in wake of Belfast house fire

Police in Northern Ireland have launched a murder investigation following the discovery of a mother-of-three’s body in a house fire in west Belfast.

The body of Jennifer Dornan (30) was discovered in her home in the Hazel View area of Lagmore on Sunday.

Jennifer Dornan, 30, was found in west Belfast on Sunday morning.

Alliance Lagan Valley MLA Trevor Lunn has offered his condolences.

Speaking shortly after the fire, Tanya Watson, Ms Dornan’s friend, said: “She was the life and soul of everywhere she went – there’s guys here this morning paying tribute to her who have only met her once, she made that much impact on somebody’s life as soon as she entered it. I have no doubt the whole community will join me in shock and sadness at this tragic death”.

Police are appealing for anyone who saw Jennifer out socialising with friends before the fire to contact investigators.

Friends and members of the public have paid tribute on social media, saying her passing is “devastating”.

Dornan, who had three children, was said to be bubbly and outgoing.

He explained that Jennifer had been on a night out with friends at the Devenish complex on Finaghy Road North on Saturday night.

At 3am, Ms Dornan left to walk the short distance home.

An online fundraising drive to help the family of the young mum has raised more than £10,000.

Detectives are particularly keen to speak to the driver or occupants of a small silver auto which was seen speeding away from the area at the time of the murder.

“I am appealing to anyone who saw Jennifer in the bar on Saturday night or Sunday morning or who saw her walking in the Hazel View area between 3 and 4am on Sunday morning to come forward”.

Anyone with information is asked to contact detectives on the non emergency 101 number.

Tanya, who is due to get married in a matter of weeks, said that she didn’t know how she would cope without her best friend by her side on the big day. Jenny was a lovely girl, a brilliant mum who adored her children.

Kerry Duffy Kayes wrote: “This is heartbreaking news”.

“You couldn’t be down around her because she would just lift you back up again”, she said. “She cared for everyone”.

“She would have been there for anyone”.