Family still 'struggling' 21 years after daughters unsolved murder as fresh appeal launched

The remains of 23-year-old Emer O’Loughlin were found in a mobile home in County Clare in 2005

Today, April 8, 2026, marks the 21st anniversary of the murder of Emer O’Loughlin at Ballybornagh, Tubber, Co. Clare.

Gardaí are renewing their appeal for information and are asking the public across Ireland if they have any piece of information which they feel might be relevant to this investigation to make contact with them.

On April 8, 2005, human remains were discovered in a mobile home close to where Emer O’Loughlin (23 years of age) lived with her boyfriend at Ballybornagh, Tubber.

The mobile home had been completely destroyed by fire. Human remains discovered inside were later identified as being Emer’s.

On May 19, 2010, investigating Gardaí exhumed her remains, which were then removed to University Hospital Galway where forensic anthropology tests were conducted. The tests indicated that Emer had died a violent death, and as a result the investigation was upgraded to that of murder.

This year is the 21st year since Emer’s death and her family are still struggling to come to terms with her loss and are asking for your assistance in order to bring them closure. If you believe you maybe in a position to bring closure and get justice for them, Gardaí would like to hear from you.

Do you have any information that may assist with the investigation? Gardaí may have spoken to you previously and due to the passage of time, you may now feel better placed to assist with the investigation.

Anyone with information can contact Gort Garda Station on 091 636400, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda station.