Emmerdale fans are convinced they have cracked a major whodunnit, pinpointing the mysterious individual Rhona Goskirk is desperately trying to contact as the investigation into Ray Walters' murder intensifies.
The Cryptic Calls Point to a Cover-Up
In a gripping episode aired on Friday, 16th January 2026, viewers saw Rhona Goskirk, who has been named a suspect, make yet another urgent and secretive phone call. This marked the third or fourth time the character has been seen covertly attempting to reach an unknown person.
Left to leave a voicemail after her calls were ignored, Rhona's message was telling. She insisted they talk immediately, stating she needed to know what was happening as "people were being arrested." This has led fans to firmly believe her actions are directly tied to the death of Ray Walters.
Laurel Thomas Emerges as Prime Suspect for Fans
The speculation online has overwhelmingly centred on Laurel Thomas, Ray's former love interest. Fans argue that Laurel's own strange behaviour aligns with someone hiding a terrible secret. Her actions, including discarding a bag and seeking solace in a church, have not gone unnoticed.
The dominant theory is that either Laurel killed Ray, with Rhona possibly witnessing it or helping after the fact, or that Laurel's son, Arthur Thomas, is the culprit and both women are protecting him. The secret phone calls, therefore, are seen as coordination between Rhona and Laurel.
What Viewers Are Saying Online
Social media has been alight with theories following the latest episode. One fan posted: "Graham or Laurel. I will guess Laurel as they are making it too obvious which means Laurel killed Ray."
Another directly stated, "Rhona's texting Laurel," while a third commented, "I think Laurel and Rhona knew something about Ray's body." The consensus among many is clear, with reactions like "Laurel I reckon!" and "Possibly Rhona & Laurel" summing up the popular fan verdict.
This development comes as police in the village continue their probe, having already quizzed Jai Sharma and arrested Moira Dingle this week over unrelated dodgy dealings involving Celia Daniels.
The Truth Will Soon Be Revealed
With Emmerdale preparing to finally unveil the identity of Ray's killer, the pressure is mounting on all suspects. Rhona's panicked attempts to communicate suggest the net is closing, and her secret could be exposed at any moment.
Emmerdale airs weeknights at 8pm on ITV1 and the ITVX streaming service.
