Hundreds Attend Vigil for Amy Doherty in Londonderry

Hundreds of people gathered at Guildhall Square in Londonderry on Friday evening to honor Amy Doherty, a 28-year-old mother-of-two who was killed last weekend. The vigil took place after Connor McNamee, 30, appeared in court charged with her murder, according to BBC and Sky News. Ms. Doherty was found seriously injured at a property in Summer Meadows Mews on Saturday morning and later died in hospital.

The emotional vigil saw attendees carrying flowers and purple balloons, with Amy's mother Sharon thanking the crowd for their support. She expressed her grief, stating that her daughter had been 'brutally taken from us and her babies' and called for justice not only for Amy but also for the other 29 women murdered in Northern Ireland since 2020. According to Daily Mail, balloons were released into the sky in honor of Ms. Doherty and other victims.

The event highlighted broader concerns about violence against women and girls, with speakers emphasizing the need for societal change. Vigil organizer Bethany Moore expressed hope that something changes so they don't have to stand there again, while politicians like Colum Eastwood called on men to face up to and challenge this issue. Amy's funeral was held earlier in the week, where she was described as a dedicated care worker with a magnetic personality.

McNamee also faced charges of possession of an offensive weapon—a kitchen knife—and possession of a class A controlled drug, cocaine. The murder charge was aggravated by reason of involving domestic abuse. He appeared at Londonderry Magistrates' Court via videolink and was remanded in custody until April 23.