Gardaí appeal for information on mountain bike in Ashling Murphy murder inquiry

Authorities have appealed to anyone who has information on a Falcon Storm mountain bike with straight handlebars and a distinctive yellow and green front forks to come forward.

They continue to investigate the fatal assault that occurred at approximately 4pm on Wednesday, 12th January, 2022, along the canal bank at Cappincur, Tullamore, County Offaly.

A man in his 40s remains detained at Tullamore Garda Station.

In a statement, a spokesperson for An Garda Siochana said: “Gardaí continue to appeal to any persons that were in the Cappincur/Canal walk area of Tullamore, County Offaly before 4pm, yesterday afternoon Wednesday, 12th January 2022, to make contact with them.”

Speaking at a media briefing this morning, Superintendent Eamonn Curley of Tullamore Garda Station shared how gardaí rushed to the scene of an incident following a call from a member of the public shortly after 4pm.

“At the scene, gardaí discovered a young woman with serious injuries,” he said.

“Medical attention was provided but despite the efforts of the medical team who attended, this young lady passed away."

"The injuries we believe at this time are consistent with an assault."

“Ashling was a school teacher in Durrow National School,” he continued.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with Ashling’s family at this time and indeed the wider community, her teaching colleagues and the children she taught who are without their teacher toady. Personnel from our family liaison unit are providing ongoing support to the family.”

Gardaí have also confirmed that a postmortem has taken place, the results of which will not be released for operational reasons.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Tullamore Garda Station on 057 932 7600, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.