PSNI now investigating death of fourth woman in Dromore

PSNI detectives investigating the deaths of three women in Dromore, Co Down have now extended their inquiry to include the death of a fourth woman.

The police said this evening that they are reviewing the circumstances surrounding the death of a 58-year-old woman in the town 31 years ago.

The death of Margaret (Peggy) Stronge (58) who was found at Moss Lane in Dromore on July 10th 1982 is to be examined as part of the overall investigation.

The PSNI is already investigating the deaths of three women: Michelle Bickerstaff (47) who died in April 2012; Margaret Weise (50) who died in August 2007; and Elizabeth McKee (52) who died in December 2002.

A stonemason, Leslie Ross (66), of Magenlis Park in Dromore appeared in court on Friday charged with the murders of two of the women, Ms Bickerstaff and Ms Weise.

Detective Chief Inspector Richard Harkness said his officers have advised the Stronge family of the development. "I believe it is an appropriate and necessary step, given our current understanding of events in the town," he said.

“We will progress the review as quickly as possible. I would like to repeat my appeal to the community in Dromore for information about all these deaths. My officers are keen to speak with anyone who may have any information which could assist our inquiries,” added Det Chief Insp Harkness.