Mother and children killed in Fermanagh shooting named locally

The mother and her two children were tragically killed in yesterday's incident.

Vanessa Whyte, 40s, and her two children, James and Sara, were killed in yesterday's incident (July 23).

Ms Whyte, who was originally from Clare, worked as a veterinary surgeon.

Emergency services arrived at the scene near the Drummer Road area of Maguiresbridge village shortly after 8am yesterday morning.

Two people, including Ms Whyte and one of the children, were pronounced dead at the scene.

Two others, the second child and a man confirmed to be part of the same household, were taken to the hospital; however, the child was pronounced dead a short time later.

The man remains in hospital where he is believed to be in serious condition.

The PSNI has officially launched an investigation into a suspected triple homicide and attempted suicide.

Ms Whyte and her children were described as ‘active and beloved’ members of both St Mary’s Maguiresbridge Gaelic Football Club and Lisbellaw St Patrick’s Hurling Club.

Both organisations took to social media to confirm that they are 'working with the GAA at county, provincial and national level, to implement the Association’s critical incident protocols.'

At a press conference yesterday, Superintendent Robert McGowan, expressed his condolences to the family and community who have been 'left in total shock.'

“I am keen to, first and foremost, express my sympathy to family members and loved ones who are today left in total shock, and who will inevitably be struggling to come to terms with their unimaginable loss. The police service has now commenced a murder investigation and detectives are working at pace to determine the circumstances.

“This is a quiet, rural location and I am aware that this tragic event will have sent waves of sadness throughout the community. Please be assured that you will see a continued police presence in the area, as we continue to carry out our enquiries," he said.

“Our enquiries are at an early stage, and I would appeal for patience as we work to understand the events that have taken place. We will continue to bring updates as our investigation continues," added Superintendent McGowan.