Ashling Murphy vigil planned as backlash grows in wake of murder | UTV

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Vigils will take place in Belfast, Londonderry, Coleraine and Newry on Friday afternoon after the murder of young teacher Ashling Murphy at Tullamore Co-Ovali.

The death of the 23-year-old sparked widespread outrage as thousands took to social media to highlight how she was just “going for a run” before she was attacked.

The vigil is planned for 4pm and the public has been urged to bring a candle or flowers, with those unable to attend being asked to light a candle at 4pm and share a photo using the hashtag #HerNameWasAshling.

Irish Prime Minister Michael Martin said the killing had united the Irish nation in “solidarity and disgust”.

“It is a very touching and sad moment in the affairs of our nation when a young talented musician was exposed to the violence of her life just a few days ago and our hearts and minds go out to Murphy’s family, her community, her family and her friends, and especially the young pupils who no doubt were looking forward to Ashling being in the classroom to teach music or sports In addition to the broader curriculum.

“It has always been my opinion that the national school teacher from the beginning of the country has been the cornerstone of our society.

“And in many ways, Ashling Murphy represented and embodied the best of that tradition of national teaching.”

Ashling Murphy’s Credit: Komaltas Soltoire IRIN / PA

MLA Emma Sheerin took to Twitter, “I’m tired of the women of Ireland.”

“It is not our responsibility to ensure that we are not attacked,” she said.

“The best legacy we can give Ashling Murphy is to change the culture that allows these crimes.”

Meanwhile, Irish police investigating the murder continue to hunt down her killer.

Late Thursday night, Garday released a man they were questioning about the death saying he was “no longer a suspect”.

On Friday morning, they issued a renewed call to witnesses and asked anyone with information on a bike—a Falcon Storm mountain bike with straight handlebars and distinctive yellow/green front forks—to come forward.

Police Falcon Storm Mountain Bike Photo

The Ashlings described her as a “special girl” and “little angel”.

In an interview with the Irish Independent, her father Raymond said: “She was a great worker, very motivated. A great musician.

“She packed a lot into her short life.”

It was also reported that the wrongly arrested man was forced into hiding for his own safety. His lawyer said he was wrongly “insured”.

Jarday has vowed to leave no stone unturned in bringing Ashling’s killer to justice.

Her death sparked new discussions about the safety of women in Ireland, with many wondering how such an attack could have happened in broad daylight.

Several hundred people attended a vigil at Ashling’s memorial in Galway Thursday night.

Lots of crowd attended flowers and candles.

Senior politicians in the Republic of Ireland have promised justice to the grieving family and have condemned violence against women.

Michelle Martin said the new national strategy currently being developed to address sexual, domestic and gender-based violence in Ireland would adopt a “zero tolerance” approach.

Justice Secretary Helen McEntee said “every resource” would be provided to officers investigating the murder.

Tanesty Leo Varadkar expressed his condolences to her family.

Flowers at the Garda checkpoint after the death of an elementary school teacher Credit: Dominic McGrath / PA

He wrote on Twitter: “No violence against women should be tolerated.”

Varadkar called Ashling’s death “really devastating and meaningless”, adding that “every effort is being made to ensure that justice is served”.

Superintendent Eamonn Curley told reporters that about 50 officers were working on the investigation while it was appealing witnesses.

He said Garday did not believe Ashling knew her killer, and said it was likely “a male who acted alone”.

The killing site remained closed at the Grand Canal throughout Thursday as the investigation into the murder continued.

Jarday also confirmed that the autopsy had been completed.

The road along the Grand Canal is often crowded and is a popular spot for walkers and joggers.

Flowers were left outside the gates of Douro National School, where Mrs. Murphy was studying, as the local community reeled in the aftermath of the attack.

Principal James Hogan said the school community was “absolutely devastated”.

He told RTE radio that Ashling was “a bright light that brings a smile to anyone’s face”.

He added: “Ashling was a shining light for children and a very professional and talented young educator.

“She has been an inspiration to so many, not only in our school but across the wider school community.”

Labhras O Murchu, of the traditional music organization Comhaltas, said Ashling was “among the best proponents of concertina and violin music, and she’s also been learning Uilleann pipes,” adding, “We know she and her family are at the heart of her local community.”

“She was a very likable teacher and had so much to offer in so many ways.”

Declan Harvey, Fianna Fell District Advisor, added: “I am devastated.

“I couldn’t sleep last night thinking about everything because it’s a place I go to all the time.

“I went there to run, and she does it regularly. I’m at a loss for words.”

Mr. Harvey said it is a road that he and his family often walk.

“It’s a nice area and helps clear your mind. It’s a very popular route that everyone takes. People walk their dogs, people with their kids and prams.”

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