Body probably that of missing woman

POSTMORTEM examination results will decide the level of investigation by Gardaí following the discovery of a body in the boot of a car yesterday, thought to be that of Helen Donegan who went missing from her Co Kildare home in May.

The grim discovery was made as Gardaí carried out searches near Newcastle, Co Dublin, as part of their search for the woman.

Last night, Gardaí said they were treating the death as suspicious, but were awaiting the results of the postmortem before making further comment. Neither did Gardaí officially reveal the identity of the woman.

However, last evening’s discovery was made as part of an intensive search operation since 30-year-oldHelen Donegan was reported missing.

She had been last seen near her home at St Patrick’s Park, Celbridge, Co Kildare, at around 8am on Thursday, May 6.

Described as 5’6” in height, of pale complexion, with dark hair and blue eyes, her family had told Gardaí they were concerned for her welfare and were anxious to locate her.

The body was found “in the boot of a car parked at a premises” at 5pm. The scene was sealed off as Gardaí awaited the arrival of a state pathologist and Garda technical investigators.

The examination of the body, to confirm the person’s identity and the cause of death, is expected to be carried out this morning, after which the status of the investigation will be made known.