Murder Investigation – Emer O’Loughlin - Tubber, Co. Clare

The Gardaí at Gort Station are investigating all the circumstances of the death of Emer O'Loughlin (23 years) at Ballybornagh, Tubber, Co. Clare.

On the 8th April 2005, human remains were discovered in a mobile home close to where Emer lived with her boyfriend. The mobile home which belonged to a man named John Griffin had been completely destroyed by fire - the human remains discovered inside were later identified as being Emer O’Loughlin’s.

On the 19th May 2010, investigating Gardaí exhumed Emer’s remains, which were then removed to Galway University Hospital 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.

Investigating Gardaí are hopeful that the public can assist with efforts to trace John Griffin, formerly of the Mervue area of Galway City. Gardaí believe that John Griffin may have information that will assist them and are eager to interview him as part of the investigation.  

Garda Appeal:

• Do you have any information that may assist with the investigation? We may have spoken to you previously and due to the passage of time you may now feel better placed to assist with the investigation.
• Have you seen or spoken to John Griffin at the time and / or in the intervening years?  AKA Fozzie Griffin
• Do you know the current whereabouts of John Griffin?
• Emer’s 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 may be in a position to bring closure and get justice for them, we would like to hear from you.  Be assured you will be treated with sensitivity and compassion by the investigation team.
• Gardaí are of the belief that John Griffin is still alive and at the time of his disappearance he was assisted by a person or persons unknown in leaving the island of Inis Mór.
• AGS have never received a Missing Person report in respect of John Griffin. Extensive searches were conducted along the coastline following the finding of his clothing, however he has never been sighted nor has his body ever been recovered.

Description of John Griffin

• Height – 180cm (5 ft. 11in)
• Age – 56
• Build – Slight
• Accent – Local
• Other – Bald on top of head. Often sported a beard, which he shaved off on occasion. Known by many by his nickname “Fozzie”.
• Tattoo - throat area – described as an Egyptian “eye of Horus”.