In a disturbing incident in Dublin's north inner city, several people, including at least three children, were injured in what is being treated as a major security event. The attack, which occurred on Parnell Square East, close to Gaelscoil Coláiste Mhuire, a primary school, has shocked the community.
According to Irishtimes, Gardaí have detained a suspect, who reportedly tried to attack a group of young people, including children, with a knife. Early reports indicate that the man was restrained by passers-by, leading to multiple injuries, including stab wounds.
Among those injured are an adult male and female, and three young children, one of whom, a girl, has sustained serious injuries.
The Irish Times reports that the suspect, who has been hospitalized for self-inflicted wounds, had a large knife seized from him at the scene. Eyewitnesses recounted seeing the knife thrown into grass under trees across from the Rotunda Hospital.
The motive for the attack remains unclear, but Gardaí are following a definite line of inquiry. They have sealed off a wide area on Parnell Square East as a crime scene and are in contact with the parents of the three injured children.
The incident, described as a “serious public order incident” by Garda Headquarters, took place just after 1.30pm (Local time) as children were leaving the school.
The swift response by the Gardaí and paramedics, along with the brave intervention of passers-by, likely prevented further harm. The community now awaits further details as the investigation progresses.
