In New Ross, Co. Wexford, an 8-year-old girl, Malikika Al Katib, tragically lost her life while trying to protect her mother from a violent knife attack on Sunday evening. The attacker, a Kuwaiti migrant in his 30s, has been arrested by Irish police, Gardaí.
The assault took place at the family’s home on Lower William Street. Malikika rushed to her mother, Alisha, 31, after hearing her screams. In a desperate attempt to shield her, Malikika was stabbed twice. Despite emergency efforts, she was pronounced dead early Monday at Waterford University Hospital.
A source revealed to the Irish Daily Mail that there was a confrontation between a man and a woman, with Malikika intervening to help her mother. “She then got caught up in the row and was stabbed in the neck,” the source said. The man tried to take his own life but failed. He’s now being treated for his injuries under police guard at the hospital.
Alisha, a Muslim convert, was also wounded but is expected to recover. The attacker, who had been living in New Ross for several years, was found at the scene with minor injuries. Gardaí are monitoring him closely.
Security measures have been heightened, with armed police at the hospital to protect Alisha and ensure public safety. Meanwhile, the local community is reeling from the tragedy. A vigil and tributes are being planned in Malikika’s honor.
Theresa White, principal of Malikika’s school, New Ross Educate Together National School, expressed sorrow, saying, “This is a terrible tragedy for the family, our school and our community. Our sympathy and thoughts are with family and friends.”
Local councillor John Dwyer also shared his shock, calling the crime “heartbreaking” and noting how it shook the town, stating, “This sort of thing just does not happen in a town like New Ross.”
The investigation is still ongoing, and Gardaí have confirmed no other suspects are involved.
