A gripping new documentary series will shine a spotlight on one of Cork’s most harrowing murder cases next week

Olivia’s story is set to air in the third episode of the series, on March 5th, 2025.  

The family of Olivia Dunlea hopes to raise awareness about the dangers of coercive control and domestic violence by participating in the documentary to honour her memory and to highlight the warning signs in relationships. 

Their fight for justice has been long and painful, made even more difficult by the news that her killer, Darren Murphy, is approaching eligibility for parole.  

Olivia was a play school teacher and a volunteer in her community, known for her kindness and love for her children. 

She was originally from Ballintemple and had a close-knit relationship with her family, particularly her sister Anne, who had recently moved to the same estate in Passage West.  

On February 16th, 2013, Olivia had just brought Anne home from the hospital after the birth of her baby. That evening, she went out with Murphy to the Rochestown Inn, unaware that this night would be her last.  

Just hours later, in the early hours of the morning on February 17th, neighbours noticed smoke coming from Olivia’s home. 

Investigators later found that Murphy had brutally stabbed her six times while she was in bed. He also had set fire to her duvet and the kitchen before fleeing the scene.  

Despite only dating Olivia for eight weeks, Murphy had already exhibited concerning behaviours, her family explained. Friends and family spoke of his controlling tendencies, constantly wanting to know where Olivia was and even being seen parked outside her house late at night.

The documentary aims to shed light on the dangers of stalking and coercive control, emphasising the rise in femicide cases in Ireland. 

It also looks into the challenges within the justice system when it comes to prosecuting these kinds of crimes.  

Bringing Murphy to justice was anything but straightforward; he initially tried to mislead investigators by providing false accounts and wearing different clothes than those seen on CCTV. 

His defense team later attempted to reduce his charge to manslaughter, arguing that Olivia had provoked him.  

It took three trials and two appeal hearings before Murphy was finally convicted of murder and sentenced to life in prison. 

However, even after 12 years, Olivia’s family faces fresh turmoil, as Murphy is now eligible to apply for parole.  

The documentary features emotional interviews with her family, including her now-adult daughter Megan, who speaks publicly for the first time about the profound impact her mother’s murder has had on her and her siblings.  

Olivia’s family hopes this will serve as both a tribute to her life and a warning about the dangers of controlling relationships.

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