Emmerdale has plunged into a gripping new murder mystery after the brutal death of villain Ray Walters, with fans already speculating about the identity of his killer.
A Shocking Discovery
The dramatic episode, which aired on ITV1 and is available on ITVX, opened with a chilling scene. An unknown figure was seen dragging a heavy body bag across the floor, with the corpse later revealed to be the sinister Ray Walters. His eyes were still open, frozen in an expression of shock and terror, suggesting his demise was both sudden and unexpected.
Ray's death comes just days after he murdered his own mother, Celia Daniels, the mastermind behind their exploitative drugs operation on the farm. Believing her death would set him free, Ray instead found himself isolated as the village turned against him. His final confrontation saw Laurel Thomas, disgusted by his treatment of April and Dylan, definitively end their relationship.
Suspects and Shaky Alibis
The episode carefully wove in moments that cast suspicion on several key characters, creating a classic Emmerdale whodunnit. Rhona Goskirk was heard asking someone on the phone, "have you done it?", while her husband Marlon Dingle was seen acting suspiciously and hiding his phone.
Elsewhere, Ross Barton was in a car with a recently returned April, assuring her he "had her back" but warning they "better not mention this to anyone." A gun was visible on the back seat. Meanwhile, a visibly shaken Laurel Thomas was shown wiping a pair of scissors with trembling hands.
Adding to the confusion, April's emotional confession to Rhona and Marlon about her ordeal in the woods with Ray seemed to genuinely shock them, potentially ruling them out—unless they are cleverly covering their tracks.
Viewer Theories Run Riot
Fans of the ITV soap have wasted no time in sharing their theories on social media, with several names being repeatedly touted as the prime suspect.
Many viewers believe Dylan, who suffered greatly under Ray and Celia's reign, could have sought revenge. Others suspect Bear Wolf or even Arthur Thomas. Ross Barton's possession of the gun and secretive behaviour also puts him firmly in the frame, while Laurel's distressed state and the scissors have led some to wonder if she stabbed Ray.
One fan speculated online: "I feel Dylan killed Ray tbh." Another stated: "Guys Bear killed Ray," while a third proposed a "curveball" suspect: "Arthur Jai." The mystery has well and truly gripped the audience.
With multiple characters hiding secrets and displaying guilty behaviour, the question of who killed Ray Walters will dominate the village. Emmerdale airs weeknights at 8pm on ITV1 and ITVX.
