Nenagh murder investigation: Elderly woman named locally amidst further updates

After a murder inquiry was launched yesterday following the discovery of an elderly woman's body in Nenagh, she has since been named locally as Josephine Ray.

The 89-year-old woman's body was discovered by her grandson at her home in St Joseph's Park, Nenagh, at around 12pm on Sunday afternoon.

Following the discovery of her body, Gardai and medical professionals are believed to have quickly come to the conclusion that her death was not due to natural causes and the murder inquiry has since been underway.

Speaking to the Irish Mirror, Ms Ray's grandson, who was the one to discover her body said: 

“The ambulance men came in and checked it all out, they told the guards that the bruises on her face were due to no medical reason. At first I thought she took a heart attack.

“But then I just kind of had a look around and seen all the marks on her face. I said this looks like she was petrified. Her face looked petrified in the bed.”

Her grandson has said that he suspects people known to his grandmother may have murdered her.

“I hope one of them comes and just lets us know that they done it and we can bring our grandmother home to rest where she belongs and let us actually have justice this time." He said to the Irish Mirror. 

Tributes have been pouring out online for the beloved Nenagh "character".

"May Joan rest in peace. She was a very gentle lady. So sad for her Family" said one person online.

"It's just devastating that something this horrific happened to such a lovely lady" said another.

Local Councillor Seamus Morris commented, "Rest in peace Joan . If everyone in the world was as nice as Joan we would have a perfect well dressed world."