‘Three people including a child are injured after knifeman attacks group of young people in Dublin’

At least three children were attacked by a man armed with a knife near a school in central Dublin, according to reports in Ireland.

The attack took place shortly after 1pm local time, near Parnell Square on the north side of the Irish capital. Initial reports indicate that the man tried to attack a number of young people, including children, and passersby intervened Irish times said.

Three children were injured and at least two were taken to hospital with suspected stab wounds, according to the Irish broadcaster RTE.

A suspect has been arrested, the Irish independent said. The man, who has not yet been identified, was treated at the scene for his injuries, the report said.

According to The Irish Times, several people intervened and disarmed the man. Witnesses said they saw a large knife taken from the suspect and thrown under trees opposite the Rotunda Hospital, which is located on the square.

According to a police spokesperson, this is a ‘serious incident’.

‘A Garda Síochána is currently at the scene of a serious incident in Parnell Square East and is being assisted [by] other emergency services,” they said. ‘At this early stage, An Garda Síochána cannot confirm any further details.’

Photos shared online showed ambulances and other emergency vehicles parked around Parnell Square, on Parnell Square East.

A number of educational facilities are located around the square, and there is also a hospital in the middle. The concentration of emergency services appeared to be outside Gaelscoil Cholaiste Mhuire, a primary school.

RTE reported that officials were still trying to determine what had happened and had sealed off the area. All lanes on the road are closed.

This is a breaking news story. More to follow…