Anniversary appeal for missing Laois woman
A computer generated photo of how Imelda might look today at age 53. Image: An Garda Síochána
GARDAÍ have renewed an appeal for a missing Laois woman on the 31st anniversary of her disappearance.
Today, 3 January 2025, marks the anniversary of the disappearance of 22-year-old Imelda Keenan from Mountmellick, who was last seen in Waterford city on Monday 3 January 1994.
Imelda had moved to Waterford and was living with her boyfriend. On the day she vanished, she left her apartment at 1.30 PM and walked down William Street onto Lombard Street.
The last confirmed sighting of Imelda was at the corner of the Tower Hotel and Lombard Street, where she was seen crossing the street. Imelda was reported missing by her brother, Edward, the following day.
Despite extensive Garda investigations, there have been no further confirmed sightings of Imelda. If she is still alive, she would be 53 years old. Her heartbroken family gather every year at the spot where she was last seen and have campaigned tirelessly to keep her case to the forefront.
Superintendent Gavin Hegarty said today: "Imelda, 22 years old and originally from Mountmellick in County Laois, was a resident of Waterford city while pursuing her studies when she disappeared without a trace.
Imelda was known for her quiet demeanour, her love of music and her strong family ties. Despite extensive investigations spanning 31 years, the silence surrounding her fate remains unbroken. We continue to urge anyone with information or the ability to assist our investigation to come forward."
Anyone with information is asked to contact Gardaí at Waterford Garda Station on (051) 305 300, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda Station.
