A GARDA investigation has been launched following a brutal attack overnight in which a person was doused in petrol and set on fire.
The unnamed victim, believed to be a 23-year-old man, is being treated in hospital.
He is reported to be in a serious condition.
The serious assault took place in the Mayfield area of Cork city at approximately 4am this morning, 20 January, in Dun Ard estate.
It is believed that three people forcibly entered the house in which the victim was staying and attacked the man by dousing him in petrol before setting him alight.
The assailants, who are believed to have been armed with machetes, fled after the victim's family raised the alarm.
As the fire spread, units from the Cork city fire brigade were called to the scene and quickly brought the blaze under control.
The house in which the attack took place has now been cordoned off pending a forensic and technical examination, and Gardaí have seized two cars in connection with the incident, which are also currently under examination by investigators.
Gardaí are now appealing for anyone who may have information relating to the attack to come forward.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Mayfield Garda Station on 021 455 8510, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any garda station.
