The body of 17-year-old Wendy McAteer was found at 10.30pm on Wednesday near St. Mary's High School, Limavady.

Police say Wendy, who lived near the school, was spotted in the company of a number of people in Clarks Bar on Irish Green Street on Wednesday afternoon.The PSNI say the teenager then left the bar between 5pm and 6pm in a the company of another "person".

A 30-year-old man from the area is currently being questioned by police in connection with Wendy's murder.

Head teacher of St Mary's, Celine McKenna, said the youngster would be remembered as a "gentle, kind and reserved individual".

"We extend our deepest sympathy as a school to Wendy's parents, her brother Paul and the extended family, she said.

"The tragic loss of such a young life is truly devastating. The situation is all the more horrific in that the incident took place in such close proximity to the school.

"Wendy left St. Mary's just over a year ago. She had her whole life in front of her. We remember her as a gentle, kind and reserved individual. She was highly regarded by her teachers and popular amongst her friends."

Eugene Harron, whose lives near St. Mary's, said his neighbours were left "shocked" by the second murder to take place in the area in the space of six months.

In July, Michael McGinnis, 37, a former teacher from Shanreagh Park in Limavady, was found dead near the same spot where Wendy's body was recovered. A man was later charged with his murder.

"A lot of people from around here are in shock about this as she was well known. She only lived ten minutes from here, said Eugene.

"There was a murder in this area about six months ago and people are starting to wonder what is going on.

"There have been four murders in Limavady in the past four years. This used to be a quite town now violence is on the increase as it is everywhere.

"A family is now having to come to death with the death of their daughter."

Father Edward Gallagher of St. Mary's parish said her parents Colm and Eileen and her brother Paul were in a state of "devastation" and " speechless".

"They are trying to come to terms with a horrific event," he said.
Speaking at the scene of the murder, Detective Chief Inspector David McConville said police were keen to piece together Wendy's final movements.

"We are appealing for anyone who saw her in the bar, leaving the bar or after she left the bar.This information is vital in helping us finding out exactly what happened to Wendy."