Athlone, Ireland – The quiet town of Athlone has been shaken by the mysterious death of 58-year-old Mirjana Pap, whose body was discovered in a remote field in Clonark, County Roscommon. Initially reported missing last Saturday, the tragic discovery was made on Monday afternoon, sparking a full-scale investigation by local authorities.
Gardaí are now urgently calling on the public to provide any information linked to the travel pattern of a silver Peugeot 207 with the registration 08G on the day of Pap’s disappearance. Investigators are particularly interested in the vehicle’s route from the Beechville estate in Athlone to Bealnaulla via the N6 motorway and the R362 road. They are hopeful that motorists in the area between 11 a.m. and 12 noon last Saturday can provide dash-cam footage that may shed light on this case.
According to a Garda spokesperson, a post-mortem examination is pending, which they hope will reveal the cause of Pap’s death. However, initial suspicions suggest that Pap may have been the victim of an assault away from where her body was eventually found. This has led to the sealing off of a residence in Athlone and the seizure of two cars believed to be related to the incident.
Gardaí have also pointed out a person of interest in the investigation, who is reported to have been acquainted with Pap. Further details about this individual have not yet been released as the inquiry continues.
The discovery of the body was an outcome of a family report expressing concerns for Pap’s safety. It was alleged that she suffered significant head injuries inconsistent with a simple fall, arousing suspicions of foul play.
In their diligent efforts, members of the Garda National Technical Bureau have carried out extensive examinations of both the scene and the vehicles involved. These are part of ongoing attempts to piece together the events that led up to the tragic incident.
A senior investigating officer has been appointed to spearhead the investigation, with an incident room established at the Athlone Garda Station. The community has been urged to come forward with any information that might help clarify the circumstances surrounding Pap’s untimely death.
Moreover, Pap’s death has prompted the creation of a GoFundMe page titled “Help for funeral costs for Family Pap,” reflecting the community’s shock and desire to support the bereaved family. To date, the campaign has garnered over €15,000, highlighting the community’s solidarity and commitment to ensuring Pap receives a dignified farewell.
Pap, who was originally from Croatia, had become a well-regarded member of her community in Athlone, making her death all the more poignant. Gardaí continue their investigation, urging anyone with potentially useful information to contact the Athlone Garda Station or use the Garda Confidential Line.