Emmerdale was plunged into a gripping new murder mystery as Monday's episode revealed the brutal death of villain Ray Walters. The episode, which aired on 5th January 2026, began with the chilling sight of a body bag being dragged across a floor, later confirmed to contain Ray's lifeless form.
A Villain Meets His End
Ray's demise comes swiftly after his most heinous act: the murder of his own mother, Celia Daniels. Having stabbed Celia in a bid for freedom from their criminal drug operation, Ray's victory was short-lived. His actions, including the exploitation of farm workers and the torment of April and Dylan, turned the village firmly against him. Laurel Thomas delivered the final blow to his hopes, severing their relationship upon learning the truth.
The discovery of his body, with eyes wide open in an expression of shock and terror, indicated he did not see his end coming. The identity of the person dragging the bag remains a mystery, presumed to be the killer or an accomplice.
Mounting Suspects and Shady Alibis
The episode, available early on ITVX, quickly scattered clues pointing to several potential killers within the village. 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 now-safe April, telling her he "had her back" but they should not mention "this" to anyone. A gun was visible on the back seat. Meanwhile, a visibly shaken Laurel Thomas was seen wiping a pair of scissors with trembling hands.
When April later recounted her ordeal to Rhona and Marlon, their lack of reaction to her fear that Ray might come looking suggested they may be unaware of his death—or were cleverly bluffing.
Viewers Point the Finger
As characters displayed guilt and nerves, the camera panned tellingly between them. Fans online have already begun theorising, with several names in the frame. Popular suspicions have fallen on Dylan, seeking revenge for his and April's suffering, while others suspect Bear Wolf or even Arthur Thomas.
Social media speculation ran rampant, with viewers commenting: "I feel Dylan killed Ray tbh," and "Guys Bear killed Ray." Others proposed curveballs like "Arthur Jai" or questioned, "Did Laurel stab Ray to death?" Ross Barton, now in possession of a gun, is also a prime candidate in the eyes of many fans.
With multiple villagers hiding secrets and covering their tracks, the question of who killed Ray Walters will dominate the Dales. Emmerdale airs weeknights at 8pm on ITV1 and ITVX.
