Gardaí have reportedly "gone back to the drawing board" following the release of a 40-year-old male questioned in connection with the murder of teacher Ashling Murphy.
The 23-year-old was killed on Wednesday afternoon while out jogging along the Grand Canal in Tullamore, Co. Offaly.
Gardaí are now switching their focus to obtaining information on a black, green and yellow Falcon Storm bicycle with straight handlebars, and are asking anyone who was in the Cappincur Canal walk area before 4pm on Wednesday to come forward.
Gardaí investigating the fatal assault on a woman yesterday in Tullamore are appealing for info on a Falcon Storm mountain bike with straight handlebars & distinctive yellow/green front forks. Please call Tullamore GS (057 932 7600) or the Garda Confidential Line (1800 666 111). pic.twitter.com/XUDhQvuDgU
— An Garda Síochána (@GardaTraffic) January 13, 2022
According to RTÉ, forensic evidence, including DNA, is now being gathered to assist with the manhunt.
Meanwhile, Ashling's family have spoken to the Irish Independent about their "special girl".
The young teacher's mother emotionally recalled the last thing she'd say before leaving for work was "Mam, I love you".
Ashling's parents noted that she jogged along the canal pathway to get her fitness up in preparation for the start of camogie training.
They added that the caring teacher and talented musician was delighted to get back into life after the series of Covid lockdowns and that she "crammed so much into her short life."
Anyone with information is urged to contact Tullamore Garda Station on 057-9327600, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800-666-111, or any garda station.
