'Deplorable' - Seven members of An Garda Síochána injured amid 'violent' incidents in Waterford

An Garda Síochána is investigating serious public disorder in Dungarvan, county Waterford, from October 17 to 19, 2025, during which seven Garda members were assaulted and injured in three separate, violent incidents.

On Friday, October 17, at approximately 10pm, Gardaí responded to an incident at a domestic residence following a request for assistance from the National Ambulance Service. Upon arrival, Gardaí encountered an aggressive and intoxicated female.

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As Gardaí attempted to arrest her, a group of individuals at the scene physically assaulted three Garda members. Despite the sustained attack, the female was arrested and taken to Dungarvan Garda Station.

All three Gardaí were deemed unfit for duty following medical assessments and one required further treatment at an Emergency Department. Two remain off duty at this time.

In a separate, unrelated incident on the same day, two other Garda members were assaulted at Dungarvan Garda Station by a male who had been arrested under the Public Order Act. Both Gardaí required hospital treatment and remain off duty.

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A third incident occurred shortly after 10pm on Sunday, October 19, when two Garda members responded to a disturbance involving two adult males on Sexton Street, Dungarvan. Both were assaulted in responding to the incident. Use of Force options were deployed by Gardaí to restrain and arrest both individuals. These two Gardaí remained on duty.

An Garda Síochána has initiated a full investigation into all circumstances surrounding these incidents. The full support of local management, including the Employee Assistance and Welfare services has been offered to all members involved.

Following the serious events on October 17, policing arrangements for the area were managed by the Regional Control Room and supported by neighbouring Garda units to ensure continued public safety.

Speaking about these incidents Chief Superintendent Anthony Pettit, Waterford/ Kilkenny Garda Division said:

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"Attacks on members of An Garda Síochána are deplorable. Emergency service personnel, including An Garda Síochána and the National Ambulance Service, respond to incidents to help citizens. It is unacceptable that any of them should be assaulted while on duty. These incidents will be fully investigated.

"My thoughts are with the Garda members involved, who will receive all available support. The public can be assured that full policing services will be maintained. I commend the dedication and support of the members who have made themselves available to assist their colleagues at this time."