Alliance Deputy Leader Eóin Tennyson MLA and Banbridge councillor Joy Ferguson were speaking after police confirmed a murder inquiry into Ms Cummings’s death was underway.

Upper Bann MLA Eóin Tennyson said: “This is an absolutely shocking incident, and today is a dark day for the local community. My thoughts and condolences are with Karen’s loved ones as they come to terms with this tragic loss.

“Karen is the seventh woman now to be killed in Northern Ireland just this year. This is a devastating statistic, and violence against women and girls is a sickening scourge on our society that must be eradicated.

“We must all recommit ourselves to the Executive’s recently launched framework to End Violence Against Women and Girls and do everything we can to put a stop to all forms of violence, harm and abuse in our society.”

Councillor Ferguson added, “It’s difficult to understate the level of shock people here are feeling right now after such a horrific incident.

“I want to extend my thoughts and sympathies to Karen’s family and loved ones, who will be facing the unimaginable today. I have no doubt the community will rally around them at such a difficult time.

“I’d also encourage anyone who may have any potentially relevant information that may help police in their investigations to get in touch with them, or report it anonymously via Crimestoppers.”