Gardaí in Galway have launched a murder investigation following the death of a woman whose body was discovered near an IPAS accommodation centre in Clifden on Thursday morning.
The victim, named locally as Masuma Sohrabi, was a mother of two young children and had been living at Waterloo House IPAS centre after arriving in Ireland from Iran in 2024. Ms Sohrabi, who was in her 30s and also known as Atijafari, was found near Waterloo Bridge on the outskirts of the town shortly before 9am.
Investigators believe she suffered fatal slash and stab wounds during a violent attack. Gardaí arrested a man in his 30s in connection with the incident, but he remains in hospital receiving medical treatment. Detectives are awaiting an opportunity to question him as part of their investigation.
Residents at the accommodation centre said Ms Sohrabi had been reported missing on Wednesday night before the tragic discovery was made the following morning. People who knew her described her as kind, friendly and well-liked within the local community. News of her death has left many residents shocked and devastated.
A post-mortem examination is due to take place to help determine the exact circumstances surrounding her death. Gardaí have confirmed that a Family Liaison Officer has been assigned to support Ms Sohrabi’s relatives during the investigation.
Members of the Clifden community gathered near the scene throughout the day to leave flowers and light candles in tribute to the woman and to show support for her children.
Linda Schirmer, who had taught dance classes attended by Ms Sohrabi’s children through a Galway and Roscommon Education and Training Board programme, said she was heartbroken by the tragedy.
“I didn’t really know Atija personally, but I knew her children through dance classes and it’s devastating to think they have lost their mother in such a terrible way,” she said while laying flowers at the scene.
Local residents Seán and Mairéad Heanue also visited the area to pay their respects. Mr Heanue described the incident as “very sad” and “devastating”, while Ms Heanue said the community wanted to show the family they were in their thoughts.
Gardaí say they are following a definite line of inquiry and are not currently seeking anyone else in connection with the case. Officers are appealing for witnesses or anyone with dash-cam or security footage from the Galway Road area between 2pm on Wednesday and 9am on Thursday to come forward.
