Man charged over 'stabbing' at Catholic church in Ireland which left woman seriously injured
WATCH | Britain's most wanted: Mark White and Michelle Dewberry EXPOSE the criminal suspects still at large on Britain's streets
A man has been charged following a suspected stabbing just before Mass at a church in Ireland.
The man, in his 30s, was arrested earlier on Tuesday after the attack.
Late last night, police in Ireland confirmed he had been charged - though have not named him.
The alleged attacker is 36, according to The Irish Times.
A woman in her 50s was seriously hurt in the incident at the Holy Cross Church in Summerhill in Tramore at around 9.45am on Tuesday.
“He is due to appear before Waterford District Court tomorrow, Wednesday July 22, 2026 at 10.30am,” a Garda spokesman said.
Police earlier said a man was arrested at a nearby home.
He was being held under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act 1984 at a Garda station in County Waterford.
Earlier the Diocese of Waterford and Lismore said in a statement it was “deeply shocked” by the “violent incident” that took place before the 10am weekday Mass.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the injured parishioner, and we pray for her full and speedy recovery,” it said.
The woman, from the local area, was rushed to University Hospital Waterford for treatment.
Her injuries were described by police as serious, but not life-threatening.
She has been described locally as a "kind and gentle" woman, and is thought to be a member of Legion of Mary group.
She regularly recites the Rosary before morning Mass at the church.
The Parish Priest, Fr Richard O’Halloran, confirmed the church will reopen this morning.
The 10am Mass going ahead as normal, Fr O'Halloran said.
Prayers will be offered for the injured woman at the service.
Joe Kelly, a local independent councillor who goes to the church weekly for Mass, said: “Our first thoughts have to be with the victim and with her family. People are traumatised by what has happened.
“This incident of criminal behaviour would make anyone ask if they are safe anywhere, especially in a place which is meant to be a sacred, solemn and holy place.
“I believe the pressures of today are making the fabric of society fray at the edges. To see something happen in a Catholic church makes you feel that no place is safe.”