Murder investigation launched as woman found dead in Tipperary named locally 

Joan Ray, who was found dead in Tipperary on Sunday. Picture: Facebook

A murder investigation has now been launched after a woman’s body was discovered at her home in Co Tipperary.

The woman, who was in her 80s and has been named locally as Joan Ray, appeared to have sustained injuries, it is understood.

Her body was discovered at a residence at St Joseph's Park, Nenagh, on Sunday afternoon and gardaí are appealing for witnesses. 

Local independent councillor Seamus Morris said: “She was the kind of person that if everyone was like her, the world would be a better place, and a more stylish place.” 

He said Ms Ray was a very colourful person who was well-known in Nenagh, adding: “She was always well dressed.”

St Joseph's Park, Nenagh. Picture: Brendan Gleeson

Gardaí and emergency services were alerted to the incident shortly after midday on Sunday. The woman was pronounced dead at the scene and her body was removed to University Hospital Limerick.

The scene was preserved for a technical examination by the Garda National Technical Bureau and the coroner was notified.

An autopsy was completed by the State Pathologist on Monday. The results of the autopsy are not being released for operational reasons, a Garda spokesperson said.

A senior investigating officer has been appointed to lead the investigation and an incident room has been established at Nenagh Garda Station. 

A Garda Family Liaison Officer has also been assigned to support the family of the deceased woman.

Gardaí are appealing for witnesses to come forward, particularly those who were in the St Joseph’s Park area between 8pm on Saturday, August 3, and 12pm on Sunday, August 4.

Additionally, individuals with video recordings, including motorists with dash cams, from the area within the timeframe are asked to provide footage to gardaí.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Nenagh Garda Station at 067 50450, the Garda Confidential Line at 1800 666 111, or any Garda station.

"Investigations are ongoing," the spokesperson said.