Samantha Murphy was found dead in Portsmouth on Thursday as police launched a hunt for a gold suitcase they said was vital to their enquiries
Murder detectives have found a missing gold suitcase which they believe will help their investigation into the death of a woman in Portsmouth as more arrests have been made.
Mother-of-three Samantha Murphy, who has been described as a “bright, smiling soul”, was found dead on Thursday and police have now arrested a 30-year-old man from Southsea on suspicion of murder and a 41-year-old man from Portsmouth has been arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender. Two other men, a 32-year-old from Petersfield and a 32-year-old from Havant, who were previously arrested on suspicion of murder have been released on conditional bail until September 5.
Ms Murphy’s family has said: “Sammie-Jo, our bright, smiling soul, radiated joy to everyone she met. She was a devoted mother to her three beautiful children, the bubbly baby sister who brought laughter and light to her siblings, and the fun-loving auntie who adored her nieces and nephews.
“Sam was the friend everyone went to for advice and a compassionate ear. Our gracious host at Halloween and Christmas, Sam’s home was always filled with warmth and cheer. She was strong-willed and determined, yet her kindness shone through, always quick to see the good in everyone.
“Sam loved her music and dancing, truly embodying the life and soul of every party. Her singing voice, especially when she belted out her version of Amy Winehouse’s Back To Black, never failed to draw admiration and applause.
“That mischievous and cheeky spirit she had as the youngest sister never faded; it was part of her charm, alongside her quirky little laugh, which continued to delight us into adulthood. Her loss has left an immense void. For her mother, it’s not just the loss of a daughter, but of a best friend and constant companion.
“Her brother and sisters, whose bond with Sam was so rare and special, are utterly devastated by this unimaginable absence. We take comfort in knowing Sam would want her family and friends to pull together, ensuring her children are always protected and surrounded with the love she so generously gave.
“Love from your mum Denise, your three beautiful children, older sisters Louise, Jodie and Kelly, big brother Carl and brother-in-law Ollie, your wonderful friends Marissa, Emma and Charlene, and from your dad Phillip.”
Senior investigating officer, Detective Chief Inspector Jody Beresford said in a statement: “We understand that this incident is both shocking and devastating to all those who knew Samantha, and we are working tirelessly to establish the full circumstances.
“We would like to thank the community for their patience and understanding whilst we have been carrying out inquiries in the area. As part of our inquiries, we appealed for help in locating a gold suitcase. We can confirm this has now been found and we would like to thank everyone who contacted us with information.”
