Police in Ireland arrest man in his 30s over murder of Ashling Murphy
The 23-year-old victim's funeral was held earlier today
Police in Ireland have arrested a man in his 30s in connection with the murder of Ashling Murphy last week.
A primary school teacher and talented musician, the 23-year-old was killed while on a run alongside the Grand Canal near Tullamore in County Offaly.
Irish police - known as GardaĂ - had appealed for information about a man who was seen loitering around the area where Ms Murphy was killed.
However, following new information, the man was arrested and is currently being detained in Tullamore Garda Station.
It comes as huge crowds gathered for Ashling's funeral in the village of Mountbolus, near Tullamore. The funeral was also livestreamed for those who wished to pay their respects.
Prominent politicians - including Taoiseach Micheál Martin and President of Ireland Michael D. Higgins sat next to Ms Murphy's family throughout the proceedings.
Outside the church, some of the children Ms Murphy had taught held photographs of their teacher and roses.
Once brought inside the church, a message next to Ms Murphy's image read: "Fly high in the sky, Our shining light."
Ashling's murder has reignited a debate in Ireland surrounding the safety of women, having been killed in broad daylight on Wednesday (January 12th).
Her killing shocked and stunned Ireland, with tens of thousands of people taking part in vigils across the country.
Speaking at Ms Murphy's funeral, Bishop Thomas Deenihan told mourners that Ms Murphy's murder has questioned attitudes, particularly attitudes towards women, and "our values and morality".
"The past few days have been a nightmare. A walk on a mild and sunny afternoon in January should be a happy event, promising the brighter and warmer days of spring and summer," he said.
"That, as we know, was not the case. A depraved act of violence which deprived a kind, talented, loved and admired young woman of her life has since united the country in grief and support.
"We all know that no individual should die like Ashling and no family should suffer like Ashling's."
How Ireland has remembered Ashling Murphy:
Hear the latest news on Clyde 1 on FM, DAB, smart speaker or the Rayo app.