TV appeal prompts murder investigation feedback

Gardaí investigating the murder six years ago of North Clare woman Emer O’Loughlin have said that an appeal on RTÉ’s CrimeCall on Tuesday night has generated “some very interesting calls”.
Ms O’Loughlin’s charred remains were found in a burned-out mobile home at Ballybornagh, Tubber on April 8, 2005. The 23-year-old’s death was immediately treated as suspicious but a post mortem examination at the time did not indicate how she had died. Last year, Emer’s body was exhumed and a new post mortem revealed she had died violently. For operational reasons, however, gardaí did not release the specific details.
This week, gardaí in Gort launched a fresh appeal for information in the case. They also announced Crimestoppers has offered a “substantial” cash reward for information on the present whereabouts of John Griffin, the owner of the mobile home in which Emer’s body was found. Mr Griffin, formerly of Cardinal Cushing Road, Mervue, Galway, was last seen on the Aran Islands on April 20, 2005 where, it is believed, he attempted to fake his own death.
“At that time, he left a pile of his clothes neatly folded on a cliff edge to give the impression that he had died. I believe, however, he is alive and living somewhere in mainland Europe under an assumed name,” said Superintendent Pat Murray.
“As a result of the investigations that have been carried out both in 2005 and since the exhumation of Emer’s body, I believe that John Griffin, who is originally from the Mervue area of Galway City and owned the mobile home where Emer’s remains were found, may have information that will assist in the investigation of Emer’s death and I am most anxious to speak to him.”
“I am appealing to anyone who knows of John Griffin’s whereabouts or has any other information which may be helpful, to contact us in complete confidence. I can also assure anyone who has information that their anonymity will be guaranteed if they so wish,” he continued.
Superintendent Murray explained why gardaí are particularly appealing to friends and family of Mr Griffin to come forward with any information they have.
“John Griffin was a family-orientated person. He has a large family. He is close to some of them. I believe he may still be in contact with them and they know where he is. I am now asking people to consider the substantial reward that is on offer. For friends, acquaintances and family members of John Griffin, it is almost seven years now since the crime was committed and things may have changed from their perspective in relation to John and the length of time that has developed.
“Something, which may have prevented them giving information up to now, may have changed. They may feel like doing it now. I am asking them to consider the substantial reward and to consider the palpable grief that Emer O’Loughlin’s family suffer. They have an altar erected in the kitchen of their home. It is very poignant to see it and the photos and mementos on it. Their grief is real and palpable and I am asking people to consider that,” he urged.