GSOC to investigate treatment of Luas stabbing suspect

The Garda Síochána Ombudsman's Commission (GSOC) has launched an investigation into the treatment of a suspect following a stabbing at a Luas stop on Sunday.

A spokeswoman for GSOC said the organisation is looking into reports that one of the assailants involved in the incident in Milltown suffered a severe deterioration in his physical condition after he was taken to a nearby Garda station.

The male, believed to be in his 20s, started to feel unwell after being taken to Rathmines Garda station and was subsequently moved to Beaumont Hospital, where his condition is said to be serious.

He had been taken to St James’ Hospital immediately after the attack, but was later discharged and taken into Garda custody.

The case was referred to GSOC by members of An Garda Síochána at the station, and an investigation has commenced which aims to clarify whether or not the injuries were inflicted while in Garda custody.

As well as investigating public complaints, GSOC is also responsible for independently examining cases where physical harm or deaths have occurred in Garda custody.

Sources say it is likely that the man suffered head trauma during the incident before coming in contact with gardaí, but a full inquiry must be completed in order to validate such claims.

Personnel from Special Task Team, a security firm which polices Luas trams, received plaudits after they intervened to stop the knifing on Sunday evening. The two security guards managed to detain two suspects until gardaí arrived, despite one of the guards receiving a stab wound to the leg.

The intended victim of the attack was reported to have sustained numerous injuries to his neck, back and leg and was later transferred to St Vincent’s Hospital. His injuries have been described as serious but not life-threatening.