The little girl who was stabbed in a horror attack in Wexford died while she was trying to protect her mother from an assault with a knife in the family home late on Sunday night.
Malikika Al Katib, just 8 years old, is reported to have “rushed downstairs when she realised her mother was being attacked with a knife” in her home on William Street inNew Ross, but was then stabbed at least twice herself and died later in hospital.
A source told The Irish Mirror that the little girl “realised her mum was being attacked and went to try to help her as much as a young child can.”
Paramedics fought to save her at the scene, before she was rushed to University Hospital Waterford – where she lost her fight for life early on Monday morning.
Ms Al Katib was also stabbed in the attack and sources say she is expected to fully recover from her injuries.
Reports also said the suspect in the deadly stabbing is from the Middle East but has been living in New Ross for several years.
Malikika was a student at New Ross Educate Together National School, and this morning Principal Theresa White said: “We learned this morning of the death of a student who attends our school. This is a terrible tragedy for the family, our school and our community. We are deeply saddened by these events. Our sympathy and thoughts are with family and friends.”
“The school has implemented our Critical Incident Management Plan and we are in receipt of support from the National Educational Psychological Service (NEPS). They have been with us all day supporting and advising teachers in their efforts to assist students at this time.
“Our teachers are helping students to deal with this tragic event. We will be sharing information with parents today around how they can support their children at this difficult time. We would ask you to respect our privacy at this difficult time.”
Local Independent councillor John Dwyer said: “Everybody is really shocked. This sort of thing just does not happen in a town like New Ross.”
In an appeal for witnesses Gardaí said they “are investigating all of the circumstances surrounding the death of a girl following a fatal assault at a domestic residence in New Ross, Co. Wexford on Sunday, 1st December, 2024. Gardaí and emergency services attended the scene at approximately 11.45pm.”
“The girl was taken to University Hospital Waterford for treatment. She passed away from her injuries in the early hours of this morning.”
“A woman and man (30s) are receiving treatment at University Hospital Wexford. Their injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.”
“The scene remains preserved for forensic examination. “The Coroner has been notified and the Garda Technical Bureau and Office of the State Pathologist have been requested to assist in the investigation. A post-mortem examination will be scheduled. A Senior Investigating Officer (SIO) has been appointed to lead the investigation and an incident room has been established at New Ross Garda Station.
“Investigating Gardaí are appealing to anyone who may have any information on this incident to come forward. Anyone with information is asked to contact New Ross Garda Station on 051 426 030, the Garda Confidential Line on (1800) 666 111 or any Garda Station.”