Violent protests broke out in Dublin, Ireland, following a suspected knife attack that left four people, including three young children, injured. The incident occurred outside a school, where a five-year-old girl and a woman in her 30s were seriously injured and receiving emergency treatment.
Two other children, a five-year-old boy and a six-year-old girl, suffered less serious injuries. A man in his 50s, believed to be connected to the incident, was detained and hospitalized with serious injuries. The woman injured in the attack reportedly works at the school and cares for the children.
Despite the severity of the situation, police assured the public that there was no indication of terrorism, deeming it a standalone attack. Protests ensued in the city center later in the day, with clashes between protesters and police. Reports indicated that a police car and a bus were set on fire, and a footwear store was broken into, with individuals seen running away with items.
Police Chief Drew Harris condemned the “disgraceful scenes” and attributed the disorder to a “complete lunatic faction driven by far-right ideology.” He cautioned against the spread of misinformation.
The motive behind the initial attack remains under investigation, with Harris stating that all lines of inquiry are open.
Eyewitness Siobhan Kearney described the scene as “absolutely bedlam” and recounted how individuals intervened to disarm the attacker, with some restraining him on the ground.
Prime Minister Leo Varadkar expressed shock over the incident, thanking emergency services for their swift response.
Local lawmaker Aodhan O Riordain termed the incident “disturbing” and expressed hope that injuries were not severe.
Mary Lou McDonald, leader of the Sinn Fein opposition party, conveyed horror at the incident, offering solidarity to the affected families and praising the police for their quick response.
