DUBLIN – A woman remains in critical condition in the hospital today after what Gardaí are describing as a “horrific and frightening” and “vicious” targeted attack at her home in the Oak Downs estate in Clondalkin, Dublin, yesterday morning.
The woman, who is in her 40s, sustained severe burns to her face and body after an assailant allegedly sprayed her with petrol and set her alight. The attacker is believed to have fled the scene on a motorbike.
Gardaí Suspect Targeted, Drugs-Related Attack
The incident occurred after 10am yesterday. A Garda source indicated the attack was targeted and deliberate, with suspicions that it may be drugs-related.
A man who was present in the house at the time of the assault suffered non-life-threatening burns to his hands while attempting to extinguish the flames on the woman. He was also treated in hospital. It is understood the man has over 20 previous convictions and has been previously threatened by criminals.
The house in the Oak Downs estate has been secured as Gardaí work to identify and apprehend those responsible for the attack.
Justice Minister and Locals React with Shock
The attack has sent shockwaves through the local community and political circles.
- Minister for Justice Jim O’Callaghan expressed his alarm, stating he is “shocked by this horrific and vicious attack” and appealed to anyone with information to assist Gardaí.
- Local Sinn Féin councillor William Carey described the collective sentiment in the traditionally peaceful estate as “angry,” “annoyed,” and “shocked.”
- “The sense of depravity involved in this attack is quite frightening,” Mr. Carey told RTÉ’s Morning Ireland, adding that this level of violence was completely unexpected for the area, which is generally described as “low key” for crime incidents.
Gardaí have established an incident room and are appealing for witnesses or anyone with information to come forward.
Appeal for Information
Gardaí can be contacted at:
- Clondalkin Garda Station: 01 666 7600
- Garda Confidential Line: 1800 666 111
- Any Garda station.
