The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs’ (DAERA) permanent secretary Katrina Godfrey has paid tribute to Vanessa Whyte, her DAERA colleague who died in “tragic circumstances”.
The Police Service Northern Ireland (PSNI) responded to a shooting incident in Maguiresbridge, Co. Fermanagh yesterday, Wednesday, July 23, in which three people died.
According to the PSNI, a fourth person, who was taken to hospital, remains in a condition described as serious.
In a statement, DAERA secretary Godfrey said: “It is with deep regret that DAERA has learned about the death of our colleague, Vanessa Whyte.
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of her and her children in these tragic circumstances. Vanessa was a valued member of our veterinary services and animal health group and a hugely respected member of the veterinary profession.”
“She will be greatly missed by all who worked alongside her. On behalf of the department, we offer our sincere condolences to her family, friends and all those in the community impacted by her and her children’s deaths. They will remain in our thoughts and prayers in the difficult days and months ahead as they and we come to terms with the loss.,” Godfrey added.
DAERA
Northern Ireland’s Chief Veterinary Officer, Brian Dooher said that Whyte was a highly respected member of the DAERA veterinary services, a devoted mother, and an active member of her local community.
He said: “Many of us had the privilege of knowing Vanessa personally and she was hugely admired by all those who came across her.
“The loss we feel today is immense and it has profoundly affected us. The next few days, weeks and months will be difficult for all who knew her – especially her family.
“We are thinking of her family, friends and neighbours at this time and we ask that people give everyone the time and space to come to terms with their loss at this difficult time,” Dooher added.
The PSNI is appealing for anyone with information, CCTV footage or dashcam footage to contact 101, quoting reference 276 of 23/07/25.
