Irish authorities report that five individuals, including three children, have been hospitalized following a serious incident in Dublin, suspected to involve a stabbing. The incident occurred around 13:40 local time on Parnell Square East, near O’Connell Street, one of the city’s bustling areas. Among the casualties are a man, a woman, and three young children, with a girl and the woman being treated for severe injuries.

Gaelscoil Cholaiste Mhuire, a school, is located close to the scene of the incident. According to reports, an eyewitness, Siobhan Kearney, and another bystander disarmed a man wielding a knife, describing the situation as “absolute bedlam.” Kearney mentioned that two children and the woman were taken back into the school, while they, along with others, tried to restrain the man until the arrival of the police and emergency services.

Taoiseach (Irish Prime Minister) Leo Varadkar stated that a suspect has been detained, and he expressed shock over the incident. An official statement from the Irish Minister for Justice, Helen McEntee, conveyed deep shock and extended thoughts to the injured, especially the children, their parents, and families.

The area has been cordoned off as a crime scene, and An Garda Síochána (Irish police) affirmed that they are pursuing a definite line of inquiry and are not seeking any other individuals at this time. Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald expressed the community’s shock and horror, particularly emphasizing concern for the affected children, parents, and teachers.