Poison and suicide theory on deaths of mother and daughter

Poison may have been used by a mother to kill her child before committing suicide, it emerged today.

Madeleine O’Neill, 41, and her nine-year-old daughter Lauren were found dead by a friend at their home just outside Belfast.

The bodies of two pet dogs were also discovered at the detached house in Carryduff, Co Down.

It is believed Mrs O’Neill (nee Gormley), who marriage broke-up earlier this year, suffered from bouts of depression.

Her husband John was not at the Manse Road property, which is for sale, and police confirmed they were not looking for anyone else.

As forensic experts searched the house for evidence, sources disclosed that a poisoning or drug-overdose theory was being probed by detectives.

Post mortem tests have taken place, but police have not revealed the results.

A priest who married Mr and Mrs O’Neill said Mrs O’Neill’s family – retailers based in Derry – were distraught by the double tragedy.

Fr Colm O’Doherty said: “You can imagine today the terrible pain they are going through and total shock and devastation.

“It really is so, so sad for such a tragedy to happen to any family, particularly such a lovely couple as Madeleine and John were, and their little daughter Lauren.

“I saw Madeleine’s parents this morning, they themselves are people of great faith. It’s just heartbreaking for them.”

The harrowing discovery in a suburban area favoured by families for its short commute into Belfast was made on Tuesday night.

A friend concerned for Mrs O’Neill called at her home when attempts to contact her failed. It is believed the bodies were found upstairs, with the little girl lying in her bed.

Police said they were alerted by the family friend who was very distressed by what he found.

Brian Hanvey, an SDLP councillor for the area, said: “The people of Carryduff are shocked to hear such a tragedy has occurred.”