In a sombre turn of events, the city of Limerick finds itself gripped by a mysterious and tragic incident that unfolded along the banks of the River Shannon. The eerie discovery of an unidentified woman’s lifeless body in the waters near Corbally has left the community searching for answers.

The unfolding drama took centre stage at an inquest held by Limerick City Coroner, Mr James F. Barry, on Monday evening. The proceedings sought to shed light on the circumstances surrounding the death of the unknown woman, whose body was recovered from the River Shannon on a fateful Saturday evening. The lack of immediate evidence pertaining to her identity or the events leading to her demise has only deepened the enigma.

The mysterious woman’s hat and gloves, discovered on the river’s hide bank, serve as the only tangible clues in a case shrouded in ambiguity. Witnesses, who came forward during the inquest, recounted encounters with the deceased on the same Saturday. Several individuals reported observing her with a sorrowful and preoccupied countenance. However, none could provide crucial information about her identity.

The jury, grappling with the scant information available, returned a verdict that added to the intrigue surrounding the case. Despite the absence of concrete details, a post-mortem examination conducted on the deceased revealed a significant wound measuring an inch and a half on the back of her left ear. While this injury raised eyebrows, there were no other discernible external marks of violence on her body.

District Inspector White, offering insights into the ongoing investigation, conveyed that the interment of the unknown woman would not proceed until noon on the following day (Tuesday). The delay was attributed to the authorities’ hopeful anticipation of a breakthrough in identifying the deceased. The crucial element of closure for the family and community, it seems, hinges on unlocking the mystery of this tragic occurrence.

As the city awaits more information, the incident has sparked conversations about the safety and security along the River Shannon, prompting citizens to question the measures in place to prevent such incidents. Concerns are being voiced about the need for enhanced vigilance and safety precautions to safeguard residents and visitors who frequent the picturesque riverbanks.

The Limerick community, known for its resilience, has come together in a shared sense of empathy for the unknown woman and her family. Social media platforms are abuzz with speculations, condolences, and expressions of solidarity. Residents, shaken by the mysterious circumstances surrounding the woman’s death, are calling for a thorough investigation to unveil the truth behind this tragedy.

In the absence of concrete information, speculation looms over whether the wound on the deceased’s ear played a role in her demise or if it was a result of post-mortem factors. The coroner’s office remains tight-lipped, emphasizing the need for a meticulous and comprehensive investigation before drawing any conclusions.

The enigmatic nature of this incident has not only left the community in sorrow but has also reignited discussions about mental health awareness. The witnesses’ accounts of the deceased wearing a sad and absent-minded expression have prompted reflections on the importance of supporting those who may be silently struggling.

As Limerick grapples with this mysterious and unfortunate event, the hope is that the ongoing investigation will bring forth answers that provide solace to the grieving family and the wider community. Until then, the city remains united in its quest for clarity, seeking to unravel the mystery of the Shannon and find closure for the unknown woman who met an untimely and perplexing fate along its storied waters.

Dublin Daily Express – Tuesday 11 April 1911