TRAMORE, CO WATERFORD — A woman in her 50s has been seriously injured after a stabbing during Mass at Holy Cross Church in Tramore this morning. It was reported by WLR FM that the woman was stabbed at the altar of the church during Mass.
Gardaí responded to the incident at approximately 9:45am on Tuesday, 21 July 2026. The woman was taken to University Hospital Waterford with serious injuries.
A man in his 30s was arrested at a house nearby. Gardaí seized a knife, which will be technically examined.
Diocese Statement
The Diocese of Waterford and Lismore issued a statement expressing deep shock:
"The Diocese of Waterford & Lismore is deeply shocked by a violent incident which occurred this morning during Mass at Holy Cross Church, Tramore. Our thoughts and prayers are with the injured parishioner, and we pray for her full and speedy recovery."
The diocese commended the "courage and presence of mind shown by the parishioners who assisted during this frightening incident" and thanked priests for their immediate pastoral care, as well as An Garda Síochána, the National Ambulance Service and all emergency personnel for their prompt response.
Garda Appeal
Gardaí are appealing for witnesses who were in the vicinity of Summerhill, Tramore between 9:15am and 10:15am this morning. They are particularly interested in any camera footage, including dash-cam recordings.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Tramore Garda Station on (051) 391 620, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.