A man suspected of stabbing a woman in a church in Co Waterford was spotted "incoherently rambling" in the area a few days beforehand, according to reports.
This man, believed to be in his 30s, was arrested on suspicion of assault, and is being questioned by Gardaí.
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.
According to reports in The Irish Independent, Gardaí believe the woman, aged in her 50s, was approached by the man from behind, before he lunged at her, stabbing her in the torso.
The suspect later fled the scene as armed Gardaí searched the area. The man was later arrested after a follow up search at a nearby property as they recovered the knife.
It has also been reported that the suspect is an Irish national from the local area, with a history of mental health issues.
This attack has been polemically condemned by local politicians and religious leaders.
Speaking to reporters, 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).
Elsewhere, 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.
