Irish schoolgirl, 8, stabbed to death after 'trying to protect mum from house intruder'

An eight-year-old schoolgirl has died in Ireland after reportedly trying to protect her mum from a knife attack.

Malikika Al Katib, 8, was reportedly stabbed when she rushed downstairs to intervene after realising her mother was being attacked with a knife at their home in New Ross, Co Wexford, Ireland, late on Sunday night, The Irish Mirror reports.

Malikika sustained serious injuries at the family home on William Street before paramedics raced to the scene and fought to save her life. The young girl was then rushed to University Hospital Waterford where she died on Monday.

Sources told how the horror attack broke out at around 11.45pm on Sunday night. Gardai from the Armed Support Unit rushed to the scene and found Malikika, her mother, Alisha Al Katib, 31, and a man injured. All three were taken to University Hospital Waterford, where Malikika later died.

Principal Theresa White, of New Ross Educate Together National School, where Malikika attended, said in a statement: "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.

"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."

A picture of Malikika was released with permission of her family as it emerged that gardai have arrested a man for questioning over her death. The man, who is in his 30s, was arrested by detectives on Tuesday, on suspicion of murdering Malika.

The man was arrested after he was discharged from University Hospital Waterford, where he had been receiving medical treatment after he was found with knife wounds at the house on William Street.

A police cordon remains in place at the property. A spokesperson said: "Gardai 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. Gardai 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.

"Investigating Gardai 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."