GARDAÍ IN Galway are investigating a serious assault on a young woman early yesterday.
The woman, who is in her 20s, received “serious but not life-threatening injuries” and has been treated at Galway University Hospital.
Gardaí, who were waiting to interview her, said for operational reasons they would not give details of the assault.
However, it is understood the woman was walking alone between 1am and 2am in the Newcastle area of the city when she was set upon at the junction of Thomas Hynes Road and Hazel Park.
“This was a very serious assault on a young woman, and we are very anxious to talk to anyone who may have been in the vicinity from midnight and who may have noticed anything unusual,” a Garda spokesman said.
Former Galway mayor and Fine Gael councillor Pádraig Conneely, who lives in the neighbourhood, said the incident had shocked people in the area. He noted it was the latest in a series of attacks in the city recently.
“The abuse of drugs and alcohol are undoubtedly a factor in this increase in such assaults and attacks,” he said. “It is dreadful that this can happen to a young woman in the early hours of the morning on St Patrick’s Day.”
Gardaí have appealed for anyone who may be able to assist their inquiries to contact Mill Street Garda station at telephone 091-538000.