Human Remains discovered in Midleton, Co. Cork on 5/1/21

Gardaí in Midleton, Co. Cork are investigating the discovery of remains that were discovered by workers at a construction site on the Midleton to Youghal Greenway, just off the Shanty Path at Roxborough, Midleton, Co. Cork on Tuesday 5 January 2021. 

On the date in question, building workers from Cork County Council were clearing an area just off the railway which had been used as an illegal dumping ground for a number of years.  This area was not accessible as a walkway and it was overgrown with shrubbery trees and weeds.  

The workers were in the process of clearing the site with a digger on 5th January 2021 and at approximately 4.30 – 5pm they discovered the human remains.  

An extensive Garda investigation is currently under way lead by Superintend Adrian Gamble.  A full post mortem was carried out. DNA samples were obtained but when set against the National DNA Database, a match was NOT obtained.  The services of the Missing Persons Unit and the Garda National Protective Services Bureau were engaged. Items of evidence are currently being examined by a Forensic Scientist. Carbon dating and all available scientific resources have been engaged as part of the investigation. 

Description of deceased: 

• Remains believed to be that of a female aged approximately 70 years +
• Height approximately 5’0 to 5’2’’ (when alive)
• Large framed
• Suffered from arthritis
• Wore dentures
• Was wearing a faded white garment on the upper body

Gardaí Appeal: 

• Someone in the community must know how the female skeletal remains came to be at this locally known “tipping point” off the Shanty Path at Roxborough, Midleton, Co. Cork
• An Garda Síochána are determined to formally identify the deceased and treat her with the respect and dignity that she deserves
• An Garda Siochana want and need to provide closure for a family that, at this early stage, remain unknown and ensure that the remains are brought to a final resting place
• House to house enquiries have been undertaken in the local area, local missing person records have been reviewed as have missing person records retained by the Garda National Missing Persons Unit.
• The investigation is ongoing and further scientific resources, including Carbon Dating have been engaged as part of the investigation.
• Gardaí are appealing to the public for any information, no matter how small, they might have to help. 

Gardaí at Midleton Garda Station investigating Tel: (021) 4621550