A community in north Tullamore is devastated this morning, following the death of a local teacher.
23-year-old Ashling Murphy was killed yesterday during an attack along the Grand Canal in the Offaly town.
The incident happened between Boland's Lock and Digby Bridge at around 4pm yesterday.
The stretch, called Fiona's Way, is a popular walkway for many in the town and is named after Fiona Pender who went missing 26 years ago.
A man was being questioned by gardaí in connection with the attack, but he has since been released and is no longer a suspect in the case.
The scene of the attack remains sealed off.
“You were one of the kindest girls I’ve met. Always helpful, always had a smile on your face”
Floral tributes are laid at the scene in Tullamore where 22 year old teacher Ashling Murphy was killed while out for a run yesterday pic.twitter.com/uDkzEdNaBN— Stephen Murphy (@StephenMNews) January 13, 2022
It's understood two passers-by attempted to disturb the attack.
Gardaí believe Ashling did not know her attacker and are appealing for witnesses to come forward.
They say no stone will be left unturned in bringing Ashling's killer to justice.
A Community Is Heartbroken
Local councillor Declan Harvey says the community is "heartbroken" from the news.
"This just doesn't happen in a place like Tullamore."
Officers are appealing for any person with any information to come forward.
In particular they are appealing to anyone who was in the Cappincur/Canal Walk area of Tullamore before 4.00pm on Wednesday to make contact with them.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Tullamore Garda station on 057-932-7600, the Garda Confidential Line at 1800-666-111 or any Garda station.