The late Ashling Murphy’s family has thanked the public for their support after a “significantly difficult year.”
In a statement posted through the Ashling Murphy Memorial Fund on Facebook, the family expressed their desire “to reflect on the year that’s past and look forward to the one to come.”
“Although 2023 was a significantly difficult year for the family and friends of Ashling, we are incredibly grateful to everyone who supported the Ashling Murphy Memorial Fund,” they said.
“We thank all who donated, undertook a fundraiser, promoted the fund, sent messages of support, etcetera. Your support has not gone unnoticed.
“Ashling touched the hearts and minds of many people worldwide during her short life and even after her tragic departure from us almost two years ago. As we anticipate 2024, we want to continue to ensure Ashling’s name and legacy continues to live on everyday.
“Our wish is that Ashling will always be remembered for the truly admirable and inspiring lady she was. We would appreciate your support in continuing this wish.”
23-year-old Offaly schoolteacher and traditional Irish musician Ashling Murphy was murdered in January of 2022 in broad daylight while out for a jog by the Grand Canal near Tullamore. The killer was later discovered to be 31-year-old Slovak Romani father of five, Jozef Puska, who stabbed Murphy 11 times and slashed her with the edge of his blade, before leaving her to die in a nearby ditch. He was convicted and sentenced to life in prison last year.
Subsequently, Puska’s wife and two of his brothers were also arrested and charged with allegedly withholding information relating to the investigation. That case remains ongoing.