Girl, 8, 'stabbed to death as she tried to protect her mother' at home

A schoolgirl has tragically died after being stabbed at home when she was reportedly trying to protect her mother during a late-night attack. 

Malikika Al Katib, eight, has been named locally as the youngster who was fatally wounded when in County Wexford, Ireland. 

Police and paramedics rushed to house in New Ross, County Wexford at around 11.45pm on Sunday. 

It is believed the knifeman turned the weapon on the little girl, stabbing her at least twice. 

She was rushed to University Hospital Waterford - where she died on Monday morning. 

A woman and man in their 30s are still receiving treatment at University Hospital Wexford. Their injuries are not believed to be life-threatening. 

The scene remained cordoned off to the public on Monday night as detectives continue to probe the tragedy.

Gardaí have appealed for witnesses to come forward. 

Malikika's mother, named locally as Alisha Al Katib, was allegedly attacked before the youngster.

A source told the Irish Mirror: 'She realised her mum was being attacked and went to try to help her as much as a young child can.'

Malikika, her mother and a man were all taken to hospital - but the child later died from her injuries. 

Malikika's school New Ross Educate Together National School said it had implemented its critical incident management plan and is receiving help from experts. 

Principal Theresa White said the death is a terrible tragedy for the family, the school and the community and gave her sympathies to Malikika's family and friends.

Local politicians also spoke of their shock, Independent councillor Michael Sheehan said he had normal dealings with Ms Al Katib.

He said: 'Everyone is just numbed by what has happened. If it happens to one of us in New Ross, it happens to all of us. The area where it happened is very tight knit. The whole community is absolutely shocked.'

Fellow councillor John Dwyer said the community was shocked by the girl's death and said it was the sort of thing that doesn't happen in a town like New Ross.

A Gardaí spokesperson said: 'Gardaí 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, December 1, 2024. 

'Gardaí 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. 

'The Coroner has been notified and the Garda Technical Bureau and Office of the State Pathologist have been requested to assist in the investigation. 

'A post-mortem examination will be scheduled. A Senior Investigating Officer (SIO) has been appointed to lead the investigation and an incident room has been established at New Ross Garda Station.

'Investigating Gardaí 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.'