Shronedraugh songwriter Gersemi Witch is set to release her second single, titled ‘The Hawthorn and the Hearth’, on Friday, July 17.

Living in the shadow of the Paps of Anu, the local artist draws her musical inspiration directly from the Kerry landscape, regional folklore, and ancestral traditions. Her work blends contemporary songwriting with themes of local mythology, belonging, and connection to place.
The upcoming release, put out under her own label Gersemi Wearth Witch Records, is described as an atmospheric Irish neo-folk ballad. The track is inspired by the traditional symbolism of the hawthorn tree and the hearthfire, exploring how modern music can connect with ancient land and traditions.
The new single follows her previous release, ‘Beyond Knee-Bent Pews’, which is currently available to stream.

Gardaí have officially upgraded their investigation into the death of a woman in Killarney to a murder investigation.

An Garda Síochána are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the discovery of the body at a domestic residence on Tuesday, 7th July 2026.

A post-mortem examination on the remains has been completed by State Pathologist Dr Linda Mulligan. The results of the examination are not being released for operational reasons.

The scene at Muckross Road remains preserved today, and a technical examination of the location is ongoing. A Senior Investigating Officer is leading the investigation from an incident room established at Killarney Garda Station.

Gardaí continue to appeal for witnesses to come forward. Anyone who was in the Muckross Road area of Killarney between 11pm on Monday, 6th July and 5am on Tuesday, 7th July 2026, and who may have camera footage, including CCTV or dashcam, is asked to provide it to investigating officers.

Anyone with information can contact Killarney Garda Station on 064 667 1160, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda station.