Violent clashes erupted in central Dublin on Thursday evening after a 5-year-old girl was seriously injured in a knife attack earlier in the day. The attack also left a woman and two other young children hospitalized. The incident took place outside a school, and shortly after the news of the attack spread, around 100 people took to the streets in protest. Some protesters armed themselves with metal bars and covered their faces. Riot police were deployed to contain the unrest, with over 400 officers, including many in riot gear, present in the city center. During the clashes, demonstrators let off flares and fireworks, while others vandalized shop windows and looted a Foot Locker store.

Several police vehicles, a tram, a bus, and a car were damaged, and a bus and car were set on fire on O'Connell Bridge. The disorder prompted the suspension of all public transport in the city, and many companies advised their employees to work from home the following day. Ireland's top police officer, Drew Harris, described the attackers as a "complete lunatic hooligan faction driven by far-right ideology." However, authorities also acknowledged the presence of a disruptive element engaging in serious violence, emphasizing the importance of not allowing them to exploit the tragedy.

Earlier reports indicated that a man in his 50s, who sustained serious injuries, was a person of interest in the investigation. However, the police did not provide further details about his identity. When asked about a potential terrorist link, Harris did not rule it out, suggesting a potential shift in stance from earlier statements that indicated no terrorist connection. Superintendent Liam Geraghty stated that the police believed the attack was a standalone incident and not necessarily connected to any wider issues in the country or city.

Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar expressed shock at the incident and confirmed the detention of a suspect. Justice Minister Helen McEntee condemned the attack and urged calm, emphasizing that a "thuggish and manipulative" element should not be allowed to cause havoc in light of the tragedy. Police are continuing their investigation into the attack and are following a definite line of inquiry. They have assured the public that they are not looking for any other individuals in connection with the violence. The incident has left five people injured, with one girl sustaining serious injuries and the others being treated for less serious injuries. The motive for the attack remains unclear, and further details are yet to be determined. The suspect has been detained and is reportedly injured, possibly self-inflicted. The scene of the attack remains sealed off as authorities gather evidence.