The teenage girl who was attacked by a knife-wielding attacker recently took a self-defense course

A TEENAGE girl who was attacked with a knife by an abuser recently completed a self-defense course, the Irish Sun can reveal.

17 years old – in sixth year at Colaiste Mhuire in Johnstown, Co Kilkenny – was out of town when the attack happened around lunchtime on Monday.

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Gardai set up a checkpoint on their way out of the country town and are questioning drivers about today’s horrific incident.

The police also carry out door-to-door requests near the road where Fight took place yesterday.

The attacker – who is believed to be around 40 years old with dark hair, blue eyes and dark clothes – held a sharp farm tool to the girl’s neck.

The teenager screamed and tried to defend herself before the thug slashed her through the leg.

Officers are also performing a forensic search of the remote area and are looking into a try to kidnap as an engine line.

Colaiste Mhuire Principal Martin Gleeson revealed the victim would have to start the mock exam for the Leaving Certificate today.

He told the Irish Sun: “She is a very strong character. She’s started mock exams and, apparently, she’s taken some time to deal with the traumatic ordeal. We wish her a very speedy recovery.

“It was an incredibly traumatic experience for her and her family.”

He added: “The school community will rally around her when she returns.
“One message we have to send to all students today is about personal safety. Unfortunately, there is no such thing as a safe path.

“We have asked the family for all the support they can and will support the student during the Leaving Cert year. Leaving Cert can be traumatic enough to not have to face anything like this.”

‘HORRIFIED AND FRIGHTENED’

Cllr Mary Hilda Cavanagh told the Irish Sun the “tight” community had been stunned by attack.

A Fine Gael rep said it happened in “a lovely quiet area”, adding: “It’s the kind of area where you would run or walk.

“Being shocked would be an understatement of how I feel. I was appalled, terrified, scared and angry. Unbelievable. It was within a month of Ashling Murphy’s horrific assault and death.

“Thank goodness she was able to resist him. Her physical injuries can be minor, her emotional injuries are traumatic. She did a self-defense course. Thank goodness she did and was able to save herself from a horrible tragedy.”

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