After 31 years of uncertainty, the family of Imelda Keenan remains hopeful for answers as the investigation surrounding her disappearance gets renewed attention. Keenan vanished from her Waterford home on January 3, 1994, and her family believes she was murdered. With new senior investigators now appointed, they are pushing for her case to be upgraded to murder status.
Imelda, originally from Laois, was only 22 when she last left her flat on William Street during the Christmas holiday period. Her fiancé, Mark Wall, stated she intended to head to the Post Office but was never seen again. A doctor’s secretary reported seeing her near the Tower Hotel shortly after her departure. Her case transitioned from missing person to homicide as her family remained relentless over the decades.
During discussions with Gardaí, her family learned about the formation of a serious crime review team led by Detective Superintendent Desmond McTiernan, which will comprehensively examine the investigation's past. "If they think there is any road they didn’t go down or any stone unturned, they will do it," Gerry said, emphasizing the team’s dedication.
The investigation's renewed energy has left family members, including Gerry, cautiously optimistic for 2025. "If these lads can do something for us and push it over the line for a murder case, we will be delighted. That is all we are looking for," he stated. His hope is echoed by the family's patience, accumulated through decades of waiting for answers.
Gerry expressed the family’s commitment to allow the Gardaí the necessary time to conduct the review, indicating they will wait patiently for any updates about the inquiry's progress. "We’re talking maybe next May we’ll have some kind of hint as to how it is going anyway. They have promised us Imelda’s case isn’t forgotten about," he added.
Imelda’s family recently appeared on RTE’s Crimecall, where they highlighted her missing person case and made pleas for anyone with information to step forward. "I broke down watching it, thinking I didn’t think I’d be doing this 31 years on. It brings it all back, but we have to be strong for the rest of the family," Gerry reflected.
Gerry has publicly encouraged anyone who knows something about Imelda’s disappearance to contact the Gardaí, emphasizing the option for anonymity for those who are hesitant to come forward. His plea resonates with many families of missing persons, who endure immeasurable agony from the absence of concrete answers.
At the recent National Missing Persons Day event in Dublin, several families of missing persons, including Imelda’s, shared their stories and struggles. During the event, Imelda’s niece spoke passionately about the investigation's shortcomings from 1994, making it clear the family's demand for justice remains undiminished.
The emotional toll on the families of missing persons is compounded by the complex nature of investigations. For Gerry, connecting with other families such as Jo Jo Dullard's keeps the hope alive as both families confront similar heartaches. Jo Jo, who disappeared after making a call from Moone, Co. Kildare, has seen renewed police interest with recent searches and arrested suspects.
Gardaí are currently reviewing over 80 statements and numerous exhibits related to Imelda’s case, hoping to find any missteps or overlooked clues. There is significant public support and media engagement, with family members pushing forward for justice enthusiastically.
Mark Wall, who was Imelda’s fiancé, expressed disdain for the family’s pursuit of justice and has distanced himself from the investigation. His comments, perceived as callous, have angered Imelda’s family. "I don’t want to talk about [the case], that's nothing to do with me… absolutely f**k all," he stated, demonstrating his unwillingness to engage with the family’s quest.
The family reacted strongly against Wall's dismissive attitude; such comments highlight the tension surrounding the case as they navigate the emotional challenges of wanting answers and holding on to hope. The family’s efforts have galvanized significant attention and support from the community and media alike, showcasing their resolve.
Through persistent advocacy, the Keenan family is determined to keep Imelda’s memory alive and work toward resolution. The involvement of Gardaí reflects their commitment to revisiting unsolved cases to provide families with the answers they seek. Over three decades, the challenges faced by families of missing persons provoke public consciousness about the importance of transparency and diligence.
The Keenan family’s hope for closure signals the unwavering resilience of those affected by tragic loss. Imelda's case serves as a reminder to never forget those who have vanished and the loved ones left behind yearning for resolution.
