A homicide inquiry has been initiated in Co Cork after the remains of a 27-year-old female were found in the Midleton area yesterday. The victim, identified by local sources as Daena Walsh, was a mother of two and resided in the John Barry House flat, off the main street in town. Sources suggest she suffered a stabbing.
A male acquaintance of the deceased was subsequently taken into custody on allegations of her murder. The 29-year-old man was held at the Midleton Garda station overnight. The authorities were alerted about an incident at the residence shortly past 4:15pm. Ms Walsh was found at the scene severely injured. Despite receiving immediate medical attention, she was declared dead after a brief duration.
An autopsy is scheduled to be performed at the Cork University Hospital by Dr Yvonne McCarthy from the State Pathologist’s office. Firefighters were also called to the location as part of the property was on fire. The fire was successfully extinguished by 5pm.
Expressing shock at the incident, Pat Buckley, a Sinn Féin TD based in Midleton, stated that people in the locality were struggling to comprehend the incident. He said, “The incident has deeply affected the town. My heartfelt condolences go out to the woman’s family, who are in our thoughts and prayers in these difficult times.”
The crime scene was preserved for examination by the Garda Technical Bureau last night. An investigative office has been set up at the Midleton Garda station. A senior investigating officer and a family liaison officer have been appointed.
Gardaí are appealing to the public for any witnesses or any persons with video footage from the areas of Connolly Street/Main Street yesterday afternoon that might assist in the investigation. They are encouraged to reach out to the Midleton Garda Station at (021) 462 1550 or via the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111.