An urgent appeal has been renewed by An Garda Síochána for information regarding the identity of skeletal remains discovered at a construction site on the Midleton to Youghal Greenway. The remains were found on January 5, 2021, prompting an ongoing investigation to unravel the mystery.
The latest development in the case sees Gardaí releasing images of the footwear discovered at the scene. Forensic examinations have provided some insights into the individual, suggesting that the deceased is a female, aged 70 or older at the time of death, with a height between 5′ and 5’2″, a large frame, dentures, and a history of arthritis.
Despite rigorous efforts, DNA samples have not yielded a positive match in the National DNA Database, and examinations of missing person’s records have not yet revealed potential matches.
The discovery unfolded when construction workers notified Gardaí about a suspected human skull at the construction site on the Midleton to Youghal Greenway near the Shanty Path at Roxborough, Midleton, Co. Cork. The scene was preserved, and an on-site examination was conducted by State Pathologist Dr. Margaret Bolster, who later performed a post-mortem at Cork University Hospital.
A Forensic Anthropologist and Garda Scenes of Crime Examiners also examined the scene. Subsequent extensive searches, spanning nine days in challenging weather conditions, led to the recovery of complete skeletal remains, along with an item of clothing and a shoe.
The investigation, now overseen by a Senior Investigating Officer at Midleton Garda Station, is leveraging additional scientific resources, including Carbon dating. An Garda Síochána is appealing to the public, urging anyone with information, no matter how small, to come forward.
The community’s assistance is crucial in shedding light on how the female skeletal remains ended up at this location, locally known as a “tipping point” off the Shanty Path at Roxborough, Midleton, Co. Cork. An Garda Síochána is committed to formally identifying the deceased, ensuring she receives the respect and dignity she deserves, and bringing her remains to a final resting place.
Individuals with information can contact investigating Gardaí at the incident room at Midleton Garda Station (021 – 4621550), the Garda Confidential Line (1800 666 111), or any Garda Station.
