Killer jailed for at least 20 years after brutal murder of Sarah Montgomery and death of unborn baby
Murdered: 27-year-old Sarah Montgomery
Friday 6 November 2026
A 29-year-old man who brutally murdered his pregnant partner in her Donaghadee home, killing her and her unborn child, has been told he must serve at least 20 years in prison.
Zak Hughes appeared before Belfast Crown Court on Friday 6 November, where the minimum term of his life sentence was set for the murder of 27-year-old Sarah Montgomery.
Sarah, a mother of two young children, was 32 weeks pregnant with her third child when she was subjected to a sustained and brutal assault at her home on Friday 27 June 2025. She was found unresponsive the following day and pronounced dead at the scene.
Hughes was given a life sentence in June 2026 after pleading guilty to Sarah's murder and a separate charge of child destruction relating to the death of her unborn baby.
Killer changed clothes and disposed of evidence
Jailed: 29-year-old Zak Hughes
Following the sentencing, Detective Sergeant Jennifer Stevenson described Hughes' actions after the murder as particularly disturbing.
“The brutality of the defendant’s actions was matched by his callousness and deceit. After fatally assaulting Sarah, Hughes stopped at a shopping centre, where he bought new clothes and shoes, and changed in public toilets.
“He then made another stop to dispose of various items of evidence, along with Sarah’s mobile and house keys, before returning home.”
Police said Hughes initially denied responsibility before admitting his guilt following an investigation conducted alongside the Public Prosecution Service.
Detective Sergeant Stevenson added:
“Despite his initial denial, thanks to our investigation, in which we worked closely with colleagues in the Public Prosecution Service, Hughes finally admitted his guilt.
“Today, Zak Hughes has been held accountable, and will now face the consequences of his actions.”
A family devastated by loss
Sarah's murder caused widespread shock and condemnation, leaving her family, friends and the wider Donaghadee community grieving.
Detective Sergeant Stevenson described the young mother as someone whose life had been taken in devastating circumstances.
“Sarah, who was just 27 years old, had everything to live for. Much loved, she was at the heart of a caring family, whose lives will never be the same again. Friends, neighbours and indeed an entire community have all been touched by loss, sadness and shock.”
The detective said the impact of Sarah's murder extended far beyond the immediate circumstances of the crime.
“Sarah’s death, which attracted widespread condemnation, is a totally distressing case of domestic homicide.
“We know that abuse can take many forms, including emotional and physical abuse, and can affect anyone. Tragically, in this case, a shocking act of violence has taken the life of a young mother.
“I am keen to encourage anyone who has been a victim, or who has concerns, to please speak to us.”
Police appeal to victims of domestic abuse
Police are encouraging anyone experiencing domestic abuse, or concerned about someone else's safety, to seek help and report their concerns.
Abuse can involve physical violence, emotional harm and other forms of controlling behaviour. Anyone in immediate danger should call 999.
For Sarah's family, the sentencing marks a significant stage in the criminal justice process, but cannot undo the loss of a young mother and her unborn child.
Detective Sergeant Stevenson concluded:
“A loving family have been left with unimaginable and endless heartache. Understandably, they have asked for privacy as they continue to grieve.
“As we leave court today, my thoughts remain with them.”
