Army Chaplain Stabbed in Galway; Teen Arrested After Defence Forces’ Response

An Army chaplain was seriously injured after being repeatedly stabbed by a teenage boy outside Renmore Barracks in Galway last night. The incident occurred around 11 p.m. near the gates of the barracks, prompting a rapid response from Defence Forces personnel.

The chaplain, a priest in his 50s, sustained multiple stab wounds and received first aid at the scene before being taken to University Hospital Galway.

His injuries are severe but not life-threatening. The Defence Forces confirmed that the chaplain was attacked after several warnings were given to the assailant.

Defence Forces personnel fired five warning shots to neutralize the threat, which aligned with established force protection protocols. The suspect, a male teenager, was restrained by military members and handed over to Gardaí, who arrested him at the scene. He is currently held at a Garda station in the North Western Region.

Gardaí, including the Garda Armed Support Unit, responded to the emergency call at approximately 10:45 p.m. The scene has been preserved, and a technical examination by the Divisional Scenes of Crime Unit is planned for today. Specially trained detectives will conduct the questioning of the minor suspect.

The chaplain, who has since spoken publicly, thanked those who sent messages of support and assured them that he is awaiting surgery.

He expressed his gratitude, saying, “Thank you for your prayers, love, and concern. I’m doing okay; I’m just awaiting surgery. All will be well.”

The Irish Defence Forces issued a statement praising their personnel’s prompt and appropriate response, highlighting the critical nature of their intervention. They emphasized their commitment to cooperating fully with Gardaí in the ongoing investigation.

Tánaiste Micheál Martin condemned the “violent attack” and commended the Defence Forces for their decisive actions. “Our thoughts are with the Defence Forces member injured in the attack,” he stated.