Murder investigation as woman, 43, found dead in Westmeath

Gardaí have launched a murder investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of a 43-year-old woman in Co Westmeath at the weekend.

It is understood that the body of the woman, who has been named locally as Brigid Maguire, was found by her teenage daughter at their home in the village of Ballynacargy on Saturday at around 9:30pm.

Emergency services were notified and gardaí subsequently sealed off the house for examination. The remains of the woman, who was the mother of two teenage children, were removed to the Midlands Regional Hospital in nearby Mullingar.

The remains were then transferred to the Midlands Regional Hospital in Tullamore for an autopsy by deputy State pathologist Linda Mulligan.

Gardaí have said they are following a definite line of enquiry. It is understood the woman was a victim of an attack and died in violent circumstances.

Gardaí carried out door-to-door enquires yesterday and have set up an incident room. They have appealed for anyone with information to contact them on 044 938 4000.

Local Fianna Fáil TD Robert Troy said the news had shocked the local area.

“It’s a small, tight-knit community, and it’s in total shock at the news,” he said.

“This lady was an extremely hard worker, a good mother and a good person. Her untimely death has sent shockwaves throughout our community.”

Local Labour councillor Johnnie Penrose said: “Everyone is in a state of shock, the community is shocked. My condolences goes to the family.”