MUNSTER BOOKED THEIR place in the knockout stages of the European Champions Cup by way of a last-gasp Gavin Coombes try in Castres on Friday night but captain Peter O’Mahony admitted that his side’s French visit had been tinged with sadness following the tragic death of Ashling Murphy in Tullamore.
Ms Murphy, a 23-year-old primary school teacher, was attacked and killed while out for a jog in Cappincur, to the east of the Co Offaly town, at around 4pm on Wednesday.
While a garda investigation into her murder continues, dozens of vigils took place around the country on Friday in Ashling’s memory.
The crowd sings A Woman's Heart as the vigil in Dublin draws to a close. #VigilforAshling pic.twitter.com/Lsz2006H24
— Céimin Burke (@CeiminB) January 14, 2022
Speaking in the immediate aftermath of Munster’s victory at Stade Pierre-Fabre, O’Mahony spoke on behalf of the southern province in paying his respects to the Murphy family and Ashling’s loved ones.
The Ireland international admitted that the impact of Ashling’s death had been felt by Munster’s travelling party to the south of France.
“We’re certainly happy with the performance — or certainly happy with the win — but look, I suppose, given everything that’s gone on at home, there’s a kind of a little bit of a sombre mood in our dressing room after what’s gone on,” O’Mahony said.
We weren’t able to be a part of all the tributes and vigils for Ashling Murphy at home, the shocking act that happened. She was part of our community in Limerick having gone to Mary I.
Munster captain Peter O'Mahony has offered his condolences on behalf of the squad and everyone at Munster Rugby to the family & friends of Mary Immaculate College graduate Ashling Murphy following her tragic death on Wednesday.
— Munster Rugby (@Munsterrugby) January 14, 2022
RIP Ashling Murphy. pic.twitter.com/VzjhOYQyly
“I’m sure everyone’s thoughts are with her family”, O’Mahony added, “and particularly on behalf of everyone in the dressing room and in Munster Rugby, our thoughts are with Ashling’s parents and family, and extended family and friends… Thoughts are with ye.”
A 40-year-old man was arrested a short time after Ms Murphy’s body was discovered on Wednesday but, after almost two days in custody, he was released without charge. Gardaí have been keen to stress that the man in question is no longer a suspect.
However, a garda source told The Journal on Friday that they have identified a new suspect. In a separate public statement, a garda spokesperson said that significant progress has been made in the investigation.
