Facial reconstruction released in Garda investigation of Co Cork remains

By Cillian Sherlock, PA

A specialist-created facial reconstruction has been published to help identify skeletal remains found in Co Cork four years ago.

The remains were discovered at a construction site on the Midleton to Youghal Greenway on January 5th, 2021.

At this time, forensic examinations suggest that the skeletal remains are believed to be of a woman who was aged 70 at the time of her death.

The remains are described as belonging to someone between 5ft and 5ft 2ins in height, who was large framed, and suffered from arthritis.

Gardaí believe she would have had a healthy lifestyle and diet, adding that she possibly died between 1985 and 1987.

The discovery also included dentures believed to have been made in the 1960s, size two brown leather shoes, a slip, tights, and a nightdress.

The investigation team have engaged a forensic specialist in facial reconstruction from Penn West University, Dr Michelle Vitali.

An illustration has been completed which the investigation team believe will be of assistance in its appeal for information.

The dentures have a porous acrylic base, the teeth are porcelain posteriors with acrylic anterior and would most likely have been privately made.

DNA samples have been compared against the National DNA Database, but a positive match has not been obtained at this time.

An Garda Síochána is also liaising with Interpol.

Examinations of missing persons records have not identified any potential matches at this time.

The Garda investigation team can be contacted at the incident room at Cobh Garda Station 021 4908530, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda Station.