An 8-year-old girl in Ireland has tragically lost her life while trying to protect her mother during a knife attack, according to reports.
The incident occurred on Sunday night, at around 11:45 p.m. local time, at a home in New Ross, County Wexford. Emergency services and police quickly arrived at the scene of what has been described as a fatal assault.
The girl was rushed to University Hospital Waterford for treatment but sadly passed away from her injuries on Tuesday morning.
Police reported that a woman and a man in their 30s are receiving care at the same hospital for injuries that are not considered life-threatening.
Sources have identified the victim as Malikika Al Kattib, 8 years old. Reports indicate that Malikika attempted to intervene when her mother was attacked by a man known to them.
Authorities have secured the scene for forensic investigation, and the coroner has been informed. The Garda Technical Bureau and the Office of the State Pathologist are assisting in the investigation, which will include a post-mortem examination.
Local councillor John Dwyer described the situation as devastating, stating that a close relative of the victim witnessed the attempts to resuscitate Malikika, calling it “the most horrific scene.” He noted that the entire family is heartbroken.
Malikika was a student at the New Ross Educate Together National School. Although the school did not confirm her name, the principal shared a message expressing deep sadness over the loss of a student, describing it as a terrible tragedy. The school is providing support to students and parents during this difficult time.
