This week, Emmerdale viewers will finally discover the identity of the person who murdered villain Ray Walters, in a special flashback week of episodes that began on Monday, 19 January 2026.
The Suspects Under the Spotlight
The ITV soap has officially named three prime suspects in the case: Laurel Thomas, Marlon Dingle, and Rhona Goskirk. Each episode this week focuses on one of them, meticulously revealing their movements and potential motives on the day Ray died. The week-long event will culminate on Thursday with the full truth being exposed and the killer unmasked.
Ray's body was discovered last week, with police confirming he was killed earlier in the month. Since then, the village has been rife with suspicion, and the behaviour of several characters has raised eyebrows.
Laurel's Guilt and Motive Examined
Monday's episode placed Laurel Thomas, Ray's former love interest, squarely in the frame. The episode showed her horrified reaction to learning the full extent of his crimes against teens Dylan and April.
In tense scenes, Ray barged into her home to defend himself, but Laurel was determined to see justice served. The episode also involved her son, Arthur, and friend Nicola King. Viewers have previously seen Laurel acting suspiciously: discarding Ray's rucksack, frantically cleaning a pair of scissors, and appearing nervous during police questioning. She has also been seen seeking solace in church, adding to the cloud of guilt hanging over her.
Are the Main Suspects a Red Herring?
While the soap points to Laurel, Marlon, or Rhona, many fans believe they could be a diversion. Other characters have been acting strangely and could be the real culprit. Ross Barton, Graham Foster, Arthur Thomas, and Paddy Dingle have all been featured in the unfolding drama, leaving the door open for a shocking twist.
Some fans who caught Monday's episode early on ITVX took to social media to discuss the plot. One viewer on X praised the flashback format but lamented Ray's fate, writing: "The way #Emmerdale give Ray a decent backstory... only for him to get killed off. Such a shame." Another countered, arguing his actions were beyond redemption.
Emmerdale airs weeknights at 8pm on ITV1 and ITVX, with the killer's identity set to be revealed on Thursday, changing lives in the village forever.
