Video: Leighlinbridge murder of Lisa Doyle to be focus of TG4 documentary

How long does it take for a killer to think they have gotten away with their heinous act? And how does a family or a community get on with their lives, knowing that there could be a killer in their midst?

Maru Inar Measc is a three-part true crime documentary series by Midas Productions for TG4, which shines a light on the effect that fatal crimes have on society, local communities and on the victim’s families as they are left without answers.

This series could not have been made without the cooperation of each family and loved ones who shared their story and allowed us the privilege of filming with them.

Episode 2, airing on February 7, features the family of 24 year old former model Lisa Doyle who was strangled to death with a shoelace by her fiancé Gerard O’Hara in Leighlinbridge, Carlow, on September 20, 2009. Lisa’s murder sent shockwaves through the community as her family grappled to make sense of what had happened. 

On the morning of September 20, Gerard O’Hara walked into Carlow Garda Station with a note in his hand, stating that he had done a terrible thing to Lisa. What O’Hara, previously unknown to the Gardaí, had done came to light with the most devastating impact on the local community and Lisa’s family.

Lisa’s family now understand that their sister had been living under coercive control and they hope that no one will ever have to suffer like their sister did. In this documentary we learn what support can be given to families who have to navigate sudden and traumatic death. 

This documentary features interviews with Lisa’s sister Anglea Doyle Stuart, who hopes that she can support others experiencing similar tragedies, former detective Brendan Murphy who was first on the scene and spokesperson for Support After Homicide Rita O’Quigley, alongside interviews with local journalist Eimear Ní Bhraonáin and Lisa’s former school principal George D’Arcy. This is a new documentary series by Midas Productions on TG4

Midas Productions and TG4 have produced a podcast, Marú Inár Measc, which runs alongside the TV edition and explores the societal impact of each case and is available to listen to across all the major podcast platforms. 

Helpline Information 

If you are affected by any of the content in either the podcast or documentary please contact:

Women's Aid  - 24hr National Freephone Helpline 1800 341 900 www.womensaid.ie Samaritans Ireland Freephone: 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.ie