Gardaí have launched an urgent appeal for information after a 17-year-old boy was allegedly stabbed multiple times in Carrigaline, Co Cork on Saturday night.
Video footage has been circulating on social media, showing the boy-- who was allegedly attacked for refusing to give the attacker €2 for a bus fare-- being slashed multiple times.
It is understood the boy was first punched and slashed in the face by a broken bottle before being stabbed several times in the lower back and sides as he lay defenceless on the ground.
An unnamed young woman lay on top of the boy in an attempt to protect him, pleading for the attacker to stop, but both the attacker and a group of youths present laughed and jeered.
The victim was rushed to Cork University Hospital on Saturday night where he underwent surgery for serious but non-life threatening injuries. He remains in hospital where he is believed to be recovering.
A number of youths were arrested, both at the scene and from the 220 Carrigaline bus, which Gardaí intercepted in Douglas Village.
Most of the youths were released without charge, however one teenage boy has been charged and is due to appear in court today in connection with the attack.
Tánaiste Simon Coveney spoke of his horror at the "shocking" attack, and urged people not to share videos or images of the incident as it may "impact on ability of Gardaí or courts to get justice".
"People in Carrigaline are angered and disturbed by [the attack]," Mr Coveney said on Twitter. "Our thoughts are with the victim and his family."
Gardaí have urged anyone who may have witnessed the attack, or who may have video footage, including dash-cam footage, of the incident, to come forward.
Anyone with any information is asked to contact Togher Garda Station on 021 4947120, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda Station.
