Co Fermanagh murder victims named as mother and her two teenage children

The three victims of the fatal shooting incident that occurred in Maguiresbridge, Co Fermanagh on Wednesday, July 23 have been named by detectives from the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI).

The three family members whose lives were taken on Wednesday were Vanessa Whyte, who was 45 years old; Sara Rutledge, aged 13; and James Rutledge, aged 14.

“Today, our thoughts remain with those loved ones whose worlds have been torn apart," Detective Chief Inspector Neil McGuinness said on Thursday.

He continued: “Our investigation is continuing and I am keen to reiterate our appeal for anyone with information to get in touch.

“I am particularly keen to hear from anyone who had spoken to Vanessa, Sara, or James over the last few weeks.  If you are someone that Vanessa, Sara, or James may have confided in, please come and speak to us.

“Any information, no matter how small or insignificant it may seem, could prove crucial to our investigation.”

Police can be contacted on 101, quoting reference 276 of 23/07/25 or a report can also be made using the online reporting form here.

Alternatively, information can be provided to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at Crimestoppers-UK.org.

In their initial statement about the incident within the Drummer Road area of Maguiresbridge on Wednesday, the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) said that two people had died and two had been hospitalized.

However, in an update later on Wednesday, the police confirmed that a third person had died.

“Earlier this morning, Wednesday 23 July, police received the report of an incident in Maguiresbridge," Superintendent Robert McGowan, District Commander for Fermanagh and Omagh, said in the update later on Wednesday.

“Officers, along with our colleagues in the Northern Ambulance Service, attended a house in the Drummeer Road area.

"Tragically, despite best medical efforts, two people were pronounced dead at the scene. 

“Sadly, I can confirm that a third person has, this afternoon, passed away in hospital.

“A fourth person who was taken to hospital remains in a condition described as serious.

“All four had sustained gunshot wounds, and I can confirm that all four individuals are from the same household.

“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.”

Murder investigation

Superintendent McGowan continued: “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.

“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.

“In the meantime, I would ask anyone with information, CCTV footage or dashcam footage to contact us on 101, quoting reference 276 of 23/07/25.”

"Beloved" GAA club members

Meanwhile, Maguiresbridge St.Mary's Gaelic Football Club said on social media on Wednesday that the victims were "all active and beloved members of our club."

St. Patrick's Lisbellaw Hurling Club issued a similar statement, also noting that the three victims were "active and beloved members of our club and will be desperately missed."