APPALLING ATTACK

Three women targeted by thug in frenzied hatchet attack as OAP fighting for life amid ‘more common occurrence’ fears

Gardai rushed to the scene after an alarm was raised by a neighbour and arrested a man

• Crime Editor

• Published: 17:37, 3 May 2024
• Updated: 17:37, 3 May 2024

A WOMAN in her 80s and two others were rushed to hospital following an horrific hatchet attack today.

The pensioner and one of the other female victims are fighting for their lives in hospital after the frenzied attack at a house in Dundalk, Co Louth.

She is understood to have been targeted by a man with a hatchet while two other women were also injured after rushing to her aid.

The incident happened in the Glenwood Estate close to Louth County Hospital early this afternoon.

Gardai rushed to the scene after an alarm was raised by a neighbour and arrested a man.

He’s being held on suspicion of assault causing harm.

The investigation is being run by officers from Dundalk Garda station and officers do not believe the incident is terrorist related.

One source said: “This was a shocking attack on three defenceless people. Gardai were at the scene within minutes and arrested the suspect.

“At least two of those injured have suffered life threatening injuries.”

“Three women were injured and two were removed to Louth County Hospital, Dundalk, for treatment and one woman was taken to Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda with serious injuries.

“A man was arrested at the scene and is currently detained at a Garda station in County Louth under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act.”

‘WE’RE SEEING MORE ATTACKS ON PEOPLE’

Local councillors expressed their shock at the incident.

Fianna Fail councillor Emma Coffey said: “Incidents of this nature seem to be more of a common occurrence across the whole country.

“We are seeing more attacks on people in which weapons are being used and it’s very concerning.

“The thoughts and prayers of everyone in the community will be with those affected by this incident.”