A man who was arrested on suspicion of stabbing a woman in a church in Co Waterford was spotted "incoherently rambling" in the days before the attack, according to reports.
This man, believed to be in his 30s, was arrested on suspicion of assault, and is being questioned by Gardaí. It was reported that the suspect is an Irish national from the local area, with a history of mental health issues.
The incident, which took place at Holy Cross Church in Tramore, happened in the main body of the church before mass at 9.45am yesterday, and was attended by emergency services. The woman was taken to Waterford University Hospital, treated with serious but non-life threatening injuries.
Gardaí believe the suspect had approached woman who was aged in her 50s from behind, before lunging at her, and stabbing her in the torso.
The suspect later fled the scene as armed Gardaí searched the area, before he was later arrested after a follow up search at a nearby property as they recovered the knife.
This attack has been condemned by local politicians and religious leaders.
Speaking to reporters, Councillor John Kelly, who is also based in Tramore, calling this incident "chilling".
“It’s just so terrible. Our church has been a sacred space. It’s gone", he said.
Junior minister and Waterford TD, John Cummins called the attack a "deeply shocking incident", adding that his thoughts are with the injured woman.
“People attend mass expecting to find peace, comfort and a place of sanctuary,” he said. “The community of Tramore is very tight-knit, and this shocking incident has understandably shaken the entire community.
“I know the people of Waterford will be deeply upset by what has happened", (all quotes according to the Irish Independent).
