Police name Limavady murder victim as Blake Newland as town said to be in shock at killing

By Damian Wilson
Published 3rd Feb 2024, 13:16 BST
Updated 3rd Feb 2024, 16:21 BST
The victim, aged 17, has been named locally as Blake Newland.The victim, aged 17, has been named locally as Blake Newland.
The victim, aged 17, has been named locally as Blake Newland.
Police investigating the murder of a teenager in Limavady last night have named the victim as Blake Newland.

Blake, who was 17, was from the Limavady area.

Detective Chief Inspector Mark Gibson said: “Police received a report at around 9.35pm last night, Friday 2nd February, that a man in his 50s had been stabbed.

"Officers attended and while carrying out enquiries they located Blake who was also seriously injured with stab wounds in a nearby house.

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Police have launched a murder investigation and cordoned off part of Woodland Walk in Limavady after a stabbing incidentPolice have launched a murder investigation and cordoned off part of Woodland Walk in Limavady after a stabbing incident
Police have launched a murder investigation and cordoned off part of Woodland Walk in Limavady after a stabbing incident

"Blake was taken to hospital where he subsequently died from his injuries.

"The second injured man was taken to hospital, where he remains for treatment to injuries which are not believed to be life threatening at this time.

“Six males have now been arrested and are currently in police custody assisting with enquiries."

Detective Chief Inspector Gibson continued: "We are at an early stage of this murder investigation and officers remain in the area conducting enquiries.

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"We are appealing to witnesses or anyone with information to contact detectives on 101 quoting 1924 02/02/24. Information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."

SDLP Limavady councillor Ashleen Schenning said the local community has been rocked by the fatal stabbing.

Councillor Schenning said: "The entire community in Limavady is in a state of shock following this fatal stabbing last night that took the life of a teenage boy and left others injured.

"This is a quiet and close-knit community where nobody expects something like this to happen on their doorstep.

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“My thoughts are with the family and friends of the teenager who was killed as a result of this incident. A young life being cut so short is utterly tragic and I can only imagine what they are dealing with today.

“We know from bitter experience that knife crime can often have tragic consequences and the use of a weapon in this attack is particularly concerning.

“I would ask for anyone with any information about what happened to come forward to police so that those responsible can be apprehended and brought to justice.”

Sinn Féin MLA Caoimhe Archibald appealed to the public to assist the police investigation.

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"I extend my sympathies to the family and friends of the teenage boy,” she said.

“This attack has shocked the local community and I am sure the community will support his family.

“I would appeal to anyone with information about this stabbing should bring it forward to the police immediately.