Her murder has shaken the entire country.
Gardaí have issued another appeal to the public over a man in a black tracksuit as part of their investigation into the murder of Ashling Murphy, who will be laid to rest later this morning.
The 23-year-old primary teacher and trad musician was killed while out for a run at around 4pm along a canal bank in Tullamore, Co. Offaly last Wednesday.
Gardaí have released further details about a man seen walking in Tullamore around the time of her murder.
They are asking if any members of the public recall seeing a man wearing black runners, a black tracksuit top without a hood and black tracksuit bottoms that had white writing or a large white stripe on the side last Wednesday afternoon.
In their appeal, Gardaí said: “Did you see this man walking in the Tullamore area? Did you give a lift to this man on the evening of the 12th January 2022?
“Did you notice this man loitering at any location or involved in any activity which drew your attention?
“Gardaí continue to appeal to any person in the general Tullamore area on the 12th January 2022, with any form of video footage (Dashcam, CCTV, Mobile phone, GoPro Cam etc..), to contact us.”
The force also re-iterated that a dedicated phone line has been established at Tullamore Garda Station in order to assist the public in providing information on the investigation, which can be reached on 057 9357060.
A spokesperson added that while “significant progress continues to be made in the investigation”, Gardaí would not yet be “confirming any specific details for operational reasons”.
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Additionally, a bottle bank was removed from a car park just over a kilometre from the scene of Ashling’s murder on Sunday night as part of the investigation.
Gardaí sealed off eight containers, one of which was later taken away ahead of investigators searching it for evidence.
It is expected Ashling’s funeral will attract “a large attendance” as thousands around the country have been paying tribute to her since news of the fatal attack sparked public outcry last week.
Mass will be held in St Brigid’s Church in Mountbolus at 11am followed by the burial at Lowertown Cemetery.
Those attending are asked to follow gardaí and stewards when it comes to parking and to comply with public health guidelines.
Ashling’s family has also asked for family flowers only and for the public to respect their privacy as they mourn their “beautiful girl” during this devastating time.
