Gardai working at the scene of the attack late last night.

Region left reeling after violent death of woman out jogging

The region is in shock after the murder of a young Tullamore woman in an horrific attack whilst out jogging near the town yesterday.

The woman, from the wider Tullamore area and a teacher in a local primary school, was attacked along the Grand Canal towpath near Boland’s Lock at around 4pm yesterday.

It’s understood another woman jogger came across the assault and raised the alarm at a nearby house.

A man in his 40s was arrested a short time later and is currently being questioned at Tullamore Garda Station in connection with the incident. It’s understood the suspect has lived and worked in the town for some years.

Gardai are, at this stage, investigating the theory that it was a random violent attack.

The body of the young woman in her early 20s remained at the scene until late last night. The area remains preserved this morning as Garda investigations continue.

A hearse prepares to take the remains of the young woman from the scene.

The violent attack has left the county and the region stunned and there has been an outpouring of grief and sympathy for her family and friends.

The young woman comes from a well-known family and she was prominent in local music circles.

Gardai in Tullamore are appealing for any person with any information on this fatal assault to come forward. In particular Gardaí are appealing to anyone who was in the Cappincur/Canal walk area of Tullamore, before 4pm yesteday to make contact with them.

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.

An incident room has been established at Tullamore Garda Station under a Senior Investigating Officer. A family liaison officer has been appointed and is liaising with the family of the deceased.