Teen in hospital following Hallowe'en stabbing in Birr

A man in his late teens is today (Friday) undergoing surgery in the Midland Regional Hospital in Tullamore after being stabbed in Birr on Hallowe'en night.

Speaking to the Offaly Independent Birr's Sergeant John Mahon said the incident occurred at about 10.30pm last night after a disturbance between two people who were part of a crowd of between 20 and 30 gathered at an unauthorised bonfire on private land at the rear of McAuley Drive in Birr.

The young man, believed to be 19 years old, received what gardai are describing as a superficial stab wound to his left hand side via a knife or other sharp implement. He was taken immediately to Tullamore hospital's emergency department and is today (Friday) undergoing surgery.

Sgt Mahon confirmed that the stab wound is not life threatening and told the Offaly Independent the patient is expected to be discharged from hospital tomorrow.

Gardai are following a definite line of inquiry, but have appealed for witnesses to contact them at Birr Garda Station on 057 9169710.