Ashling Murphy’s family thank public after ‘difficult year’ that saw killer jailed

The young teacher was stabbed by Jozef Puska as she exercised along the canal bank in Tullamore, Co Offaly on January 12 2022. He was convicted of her murder in November 2023 in a case that gripped the nation.

Evil Puska attacked the 23-year-old, stabbing her 11 times in the neck in a totally unprovoked and premeditated attack after stalking two other women that day.

Her heartbroken family believe Puska should never see the light of day.

A statement was posted today on the ‘Ashling Murphy Memorial Fund’ Facebook page which was set up to continue the legacy of Ashling, a talented musician.

It comes as the second anniversary of her murder approaches on January 12.

“As the year, 2023, has drawn to a close and a new year begins, we would like to reflect on the year that’s past and look forward to the one to come,” the statement reads.

“Although 2023 was a significantly difficult year for the family and friends of Ashling, we are incredibly grateful to everyone who supported the Ashling Murphy Memorial Fund.

“We thank all who donated, undertook a fundraiser, promoted the fund, sent messages of support etc. Your support has not gone unnoticed.

“Ashling touched the hearts and minds of many people worldwide during her short life and even after her tragic departure from us almost two years ago.

“As we anticipate 2024, we want to continue to ensure Ashling’s name and legacy continues to live on everyday.

“Our wish is that Ashling will always be remembered for the truly admirable and inspiring lady she was. We would appreciate your support in continuing this wish.”

The ‘Ashling Murphy Memorial Fund’ will help with the provisions of tuition, facilities and equipment where required to enhance the culture Ashling grew up in and was very much part of.

The fund aims to provide cultural and musical scholarships, promote the Irish language and provide support to groups and individuals interested in traditional Irish culture.

Despite initially telling gardaí, “I am the murderer”, in the wake of Ashling’s killing, father-of-five Puska pleaded not guilty to her murder – putting her family through the ordeal of a trial.

He took to the witness stand during his trial and claimed he tried to save the young woman’s life after another man had attacked her.

However, the jury found him guilty after deliberating for just two hours.

Judge Tony Hunt told them it was absolutely the correct verdict and that there was “evil in the room” before later jailing him for life.

After his conviction, Ashling’s family and partner Ryan Casey, spoke about their relief that justice had been served.

“Ashling was subject to incomprehensible violence by a predator … who was not known to her. While we do not glory in any conviction, we recognise the importance of holding accountable, those who would commit such terrible atrocities.

“The judicial process cannot bring our darling Ashling back…nor can it heal our wounds, but we are relieved that this verdict delivers justice.

“It is simply imperative that this viscious monster can never harm another woman again,” the family stated.

People can donate by visiting www.idonate.ie/cause/AshlingMurphyMemorialFund