Gardaí have released a facial reconstruction image in a bid to identify the skeletal remains of a woman that were discovered at a construction site on the Midleton to Youghal Greenway in Cork on 5 January 2021.
Gardaí engaged Dr Michelle Vitali, a forensic specialist in facial reconstruction from Penn West University in the US, to help with the investigation.
Dr Vitali completed an illustration which the investigation team believe will be of assistance.
Forensic examinations suggest that the woman was: over 70 when she died; around 1.52m-1.57m (5' to 5'2") in height; and large framed.
Examinations suggest the woman wore dentures, believed to have been made in or around the 1960s, and that she may have suffered from arthritis.
The woman's dentures are believed to have been made in or around the 1960s. Gardaí said they have a "porous acrylic base, the teeth are porcelain posteriors with acrylic anterior and would most likely have been privately made".
A slip, tights and a nightdress were also recovered from the scene as well as Size 2 brown leather shoes.
Gardaí are hopeful that based on the information, and the facial reconstruction image, that a person or persons will be able to identify the woman.
DNA samples have been compared against the National DNA Database. However, a positive match was not found. An Garda Síochána is also liaising with Interpol.
Examinations of missing persons records have not identified any potential matches at this time, according to gardaí.
In a statement, gardaí said: "Any information received by the investigation team will be treated with the strictest of confidence. Gardaí are determined to identify this person and treat them with the respect and dignity they deserve.
"If you have any information that could help in the possible identification of this lady, no matter how insignificant you may think it might be, please contact the garda investigation team, let them decide on the importance of your information."
Anyone with information is asked to contact the investigation team at Cobh Garda Station on 021 4908530, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any garda station.
