There has been “shock” and “devastation” expressed as widespread tributes have been paid after a young woman passed away at a nightclub in Belfast city centre at the weekend.
It happened in the early hours of Sunday December 1 at Lux nightclub, with police confirming an investigation is now underway.
Police, fire crews and paramedics were called to the venue at around 2.20am following reports that two women had fallen unconscious.
Upon arrival of emergency services one of the women – who was aged in her 20s – was found to have passed away
The other was taken to hospital where she remains undergoing treatment.
A PSNI spokesperson said: “Police enquiries are at a very early stage and anyone who believes they may have information that could assist, can contact police on 101, or submit information online via http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/.”
Sinn Féin MLA Órlaithí Flynn has expressed her condolences to the young woman’s family.
The west Belfast MLA said: “I am shocked and deeply saddened to learn that a young woman lost her life in the early hours of Sunday morning in Belfast city centre.
“This is an absolute tragedy and I want to extend my deepest condolences to the woman’s family and friends who have woken today to this unthinkable and heart-breaking news.
“My thoughts are also with another woman and her loved ones as she remains in hospital today undergoing treatment.
“Police have appealed for anyone who may be able to assist their investigation to contact them.”
SDLP councillor Gary McKeown added: “This is terrible news, and my thoughts are with the family and friends of the woman who died. For something like this to happen is tragic, but it is particularly poignant at this time of year.”
Hospitality Ulster – the trade body which represents the sector in Northern Ireland – said they were “deeply saddened”.
Their chief executive Colin Neill added: “Nobody should ever go on a night out and not return home.
“As we await more information, we extend our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of the woman who has died. Our thoughts are also with the woman who remains in hospital.
“Anyone who may be able to assist the police with their investigation should contact them immediately.”
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News Catch Up: Friday 29th November