Schoolgirl, 8, dies after ‘attempting to protect mother from knife attack’ | United Kingdom | News
An eight-year-old girl has tragically lost her life while heroically trying to save her mother from a brutal stabbing in their home. The brave young girl was fatally injured as she rushed downstairs to confront the attacker who had turned on her mother with a knife at their home in New Ross, Co Wexford, Ireland.
According to The Irish Mirror, the attacker then directed his violence towards Malikika Al Katib, stabbing her several times. A source revealed: “She realized her mother was being attacked and she went to try and help her as much as a young child can.” Despite the desperate efforts of paramedics at the family’s William Street home, Malikika succumbed to her serious injuries at Waterford University Hospital on Monday morning.
The horrific episode unfolded shortly before midnight on Sunday, when Gardai from the Armed Support Unit arrived to find Malikika injured, her mother Alisha Al Katib, 31, and the man involved. All three were rushed to Waterford University Hospital, where Malikika was pronounced dead a short time later.
Sources say his mother is on the mend and is expected to make a full recovery, reports The Mirror.
The deep sadness at New Ross Educate Together National School is palpable following the distressing loss of young Malikika. Principal Theresa White expressed her grief, saying: “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 go out to the family and friends.”
She revealed the school had triggered its critical incident management plan with the support of psychology experts, saying: “Our teachers are helping students cope with this tragic event. Today we will share information with parents on how they can support their children during this tragic event. difficult period. We ask that you respect our privacy during this difficult time.
Amid ongoing investigations, detectives from the Garda Technical Bureau remained on scene until Monday evening, maintaining a cordon while inquiries continue.
Confirming the situation, a representative disclosed details of the ongoing investigation: “Gardaí are investigating all circumstances surrounding the death of a young girl following a fatal assault at a domestic residence in New Ross, Co . Wexford on Sunday December 1, 2024. Gardaí and emergency services attended the scene at around 11:45 p.m.
“The girl was taken to Waterford University Hospital for treatment. She died from her injuries early this morning. A woman and man (30) are receiving treatment at Wexford University Hospital Their injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.”
The scene remains preserved for forensic examination. “The coroner has been informed and the Garda Technical Bureau and the State Pathologist’s Office have been invited to assist in the investigation. A post-mortem examination will be scheduled.
A Senior Investigating Officer (SIO) was appointed to lead the investigation and an incident room was established at New Ross Garda Station. “Gardaí investigators are appealing to anyone who may have information about 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.
