Widespread shock in Waterford following ‘deeply shocking’ stabbing in local church
A number of Waterford politicians have expressed their horror at the incident
Widespread shock has been expressed in County Waterford following a “deeply shocking” stabbing in a local church this morning.
The incident occurred during a recitation of the rosary at Holy Cross Church in Tramore at around 9:45am.
A woman in her 50s was transferred to University Hospital Waterford with serious but non-life threatening injuries.
A man in his 30s was arrested at a nearby domestic residence and a garda investigation is underway.
A number of local policitians have expressed their shock and horror at the incident.
Waterford Fine Gael TD and Minister of State John Cummins described the incident as “deeply shocking”.
Minister Cummins said: “My immediate thoughts are with the woman who was injured, her family and everyone who witnessed this deeply shocking incident in Tramore this morning.
“People attend Mass expecting to find peace, comfort and a place of sanctuary.
“The community of Tramore is very tight knit and this shocking incident has understandably shaken the entire community.”
He encouraged anyone with any information on the incident to make it available to the gardaí.
“I know the people of Waterford will be deeply upset by what has happened.
“This is a live Garda investigation and I’m urging anyone with information to provide that to Gardaí.
“I also want to pay tribute to the emergency services and An Garda Síochána who attended the scene.”
Meanwhile, Waterford Sinn Féin TD David Cullinane described news of the incident as “very distressing”.
In a post on Facebook, Deputy Cullinane wrote: “Very distressing news from Tramore today.
“My thoughts are with the woman who was seriously injured and with her family and loved ones at this very difficult time.
“I also want to thank the emergency services and Gardaí for their response.”
His party colleague, Deputy Conor McGuinness, similarly expressed his shock at the incident.
He wrote: “Distressing news coming from Tramore this morning. My thoughts are with the person injured and her family.
“Please give Gardaí and emergency services the space necessary to do their jobs.”
Fianna Fáil councillor Eamon Quinlan described the incident as a “profoundly shocking and disturbing stabbing”.
Cllr Quinlan continued: “Our thoughts are with the victim and their loved ones.
“At times like this it is so important for communities to rally together. I encourage all those who are in a position to provide information to Gardai to please do so.”
The Diocese of Waterford & Lismore has also issued a statement in which it said it was “deeply shocked” by the incident.
The male who was arrested in connection with the incident is currently detained under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act 1984 in a Garda Station in Co. Waterford.
Gardaí seized a knife which will be technically examined. They are appealing for witnesses to come forward.
Any person who was in the vicinity of Summerhill, Tramore between 9:15am and 10:15am this morning and who may have camera footage (including dash-cam) is asked to make this footage available to Gardaí.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Tramore Garda Station on (051) 391620, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.
Investigations are ongoing.