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Fresh appeal in Emer O'Loughlin inquiry

Remains of the 23-year-old woman were found in burnt-out caravan in 2005
Remains of the 23-year-old woman were found in burnt-out caravan in 2005

Gardaí in Galway have issued a fresh appeal for information in relation to the murder of a 23-year-old woman in Kinvara six years ago.

A substantial reward is being offered for information on the whereabouts of John Griffin.

Gardaí believe he may be able to assist in the investigation into the death of Emer O'Loughlin from Ennistymon in Co Clare.

She was a student of art at the Galway Mayo Institute of Technology in Galway.

Ms O'Loughlin's remains were found in April 2005 in a burnt-out caravan in an isolated area between Tubber and Kinvara.

A post mortem at the time did not indicate the cause of death.

Her body was exhumed five years later and a new post mortem established that she had met her death in a violent manner before the fire occurred.

As part of the murder investigation, gardaí have appealed for information as to the whereabouts of 44-year-old John Griffin originally from Mervue in Galway City.

He has also used the name John McDermott in the past.

Mr Griffin is described as being 1.75m (5'9") and has a distinctive Celtic design tattoo on the Adams apple area of his neck.

He was last seen on the Aran Islands in 2005 and gardaí say he left his clothes off a cliff edge at the time to give the impression that he had died.

However, it is believed he is living in mainland Europe under an assumed name.

Superintendent Pat Murray said anyone with information on Mr Griffin's whereabouts, or with any information on the case, should asked to contact Crimestoppers on 1800-250025.

Calls to Crimestoppers are strictly confidential and callers do not need to leave their name or address.