In the early hours of Monday, September 15, 2025, the quiet streets of Lisburn were jolted awake by the blare of emergency sirens. Just before 1am, the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service received a call for assistance at a property in the Wardsborough Road area, prompting an immediate response from both ambulance crews and the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI). What they found would spark a murder investigation and leave a community reeling.
According to Detective Inspector Jill Angus, officers arrived at the scene to discover a 42-year-old man suffering from serious injuries. Emergency medical treatment was provided on-site before he was rushed to hospital. Despite the efforts of paramedics and hospital staff, the man succumbed to his injuries later that morning. The gravity of the incident was immediately clear. As Detective Inspector Angus explained, “Police received a call for assistance from the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service just before 1am on Monday morning, September 15, at a property in the Wardsborough Road area of the city. Officers attended, and a man, aged 42, was located at the property with serious injuries. Medical treatment was provided at the scene – before he was transferred onward to hospital. Sadly, the man then passed away this morning due to the extent of his injuries.”
Within hours of the incident, PSNI officers arrested two people: a 38-year-old woman and a 37-year-old man. Both suspects were taken into custody on suspicion of murder and, as of Monday evening, remained there, assisting detectives with their inquiries. The investigation, according to Detective Inspector Angus, is still at an early stage. “We are working to establish the circumstances surrounding the man’s death and to determine exactly what happened,” she said. Angus also made a public appeal: “I would appeal to anyone who may have information that could assist us, to contact police on 101, quoting reference number 29 15/09/25. Alternatively, you can also submit a report or information online using the non-emergency reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/. You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org/.”
As news of the death spread, the Wardsborough Road area transformed into a hive of police activity. Residents awoke to find cordons in place and a marked increase in police presence. Officers maintained a visible presence throughout the day, conducting door-to-door inquiries and securing the scene for forensic examination. According to BBC News NI, a police car remained parked outside the apartment building well into Monday night, while cordons restricted access to the immediate area. Detective Inspector Angus reassured the public, saying, “The local community can expect to see an increased police presence in the Wardsborough area as officers conduct further enquiries into what happened – cordons also remain in place.”
The incident has sent shockwaves through Lisburn, a city not unaccustomed to tragedy but still deeply affected each time violence strikes close to home. Local leaders were quick to respond, offering condolences and urging cooperation with the ongoing investigation. Sinn Féin councillor Declan Lynch described the event as “heartbreaking,” telling the press, “It is heartbreaking that a man has lost his life in Lisburn this morning. My thoughts are with his family and friends at this very difficult time. I would urge anyone with information about this tragic incident to bring it forward to the PSNI.” Lynch’s sentiment was echoed by Alliance Party councillor Nicola Parker, who said, “I am deeply saddened to learn about this horrifying incident, and my sympathies go out to the family and loved ones of the victim during this incredibly difficult time. This tragic incident has left many residents in the community feeling shocked and distressed, but I am confident they will unite during this challenging time. The PSNI now need space to carry out their investigations but I would appeal to anyone who may have information that could assist, to please contact police.”
The murder in Lisburn is not an isolated event but rather the latest in a disturbing trend across Northern Ireland. The victim’s death brings the number of people murdered in the region this year to 14, with 11 of those killings occurring in just the last 12 weeks. The spike in violence has not gone unnoticed by authorities. Earlier this month, the body of 40-year-old Chrissy Burns was discovered in the Cusher Green area of Mountnorris, County Armagh. Mr. Burns had suffered serious head and facial injuries, and a 39-year-old man has since been charged with his murder.
PSNI Chief Constable Jon Boutcher has expressed concern over the recent surge in homicides, highlighting the strain it has placed on police resources. “Too many families are now grieving and attempting to come to terms with the appalling loss of a loved one in shocking circumstances,” Boutcher said. “At times like this when we stop to take stock of policing, we must not forget that. Due to the high number of cases being managed, coupled with our low numbers of detectives, I considered seeking national mutual assistance for our homicide teams. I think that would be unprecedented.”
For the people of Lisburn, the events of September 15 have left a mark that will not soon fade. The community, though shaken, has responded with resilience and a determination to support both the victim’s family and the ongoing investigation. Local leaders have called for unity and vigilance, reminding residents of the importance of coming forward with any information, no matter how small it may seem.
As the investigation continues, the PSNI has reiterated its commitment to finding answers and bringing those responsible to justice. Detective Inspector Angus, while cautioning that the inquiry is still in its infancy, has assured the public that every effort is being made to uncover the truth. The increased police presence in Wardsborough Road serves as both a reassurance and a reminder of the seriousness with which authorities are treating the case.
Meanwhile, the broader context of rising violence in Northern Ireland looms large. The rapid succession of murders has prompted difficult conversations about policing, community safety, and the resources available to law enforcement. Chief Constable Boutcher’s consideration of requesting outside help underscores the challenges facing PSNI’s homicide teams, who are grappling with a workload that shows no signs of slowing.
For now, the focus remains on Lisburn and the unanswered questions surrounding the 42-year-old man’s death. The community waits anxiously for updates, hoping that justice will be served and that some measure of peace can be restored. As Detective Inspector Angus put it, the investigation is ongoing, and the appeal for information remains open. In the meantime, Lisburn mourns the loss of another of its own, united in grief and determination to see the truth come to light.
