A violent assault outside a Galway church has prompted a councillor to issue a warning to residents.
Gardai are investigating after a man was hit in the face with a crowbar outside a church in Moylough while a funeral took place just metres away.
The incident happened at Moylough Church at around 7:30pm on Sunday evening as mourners attended a funeral mass.
According to Councillor Michael Connolly, the victim was struck after trying to stop a man from breaking into his car at the Moylough church car park.
Mr Connolly told Galway Beo : "They'd smashed the window in and the man was trying to stop the lad from breaking into his car, so the lad hit him with the weapon.
"The crowbar has the u-shaped part at the top, so the victim's face has been badly marked with it."
He added: "It's awful for this to happen at a church during a funeral."
Mr. Connolly added that he doesn't believe the perpetrators are from the area, as he continued: "These people aren't local, they come from 20 miles outside the town and come and go like lightning.
Mr. Connolly also warned residents to be vigilant when leaving their car unattended.
He said: "I would say to residents if they're leaving their car anywhere to make sure they don't leave valuables in it or visible inside even if its locked, because these thugs don't mind, all they want is a quick buck."
A gardai spokesperson told Galway Beo: "Gardaí are investigating an incident of assault that occurred on the 12th November 2022 at 7.20pm in Moylough, Co. Galway, where a man in his 40s suffered injuries that are believed to be non-life threatening at this time."
READ NEXT:
- Vicky Phelan dies: Tributes to 'courageous' cervical cancer campaigner from Limerick
- In photos: How Vicky Phelan went from ordinary mum to one of Ireland's most important women
- Outpouring of tributes paid to 'courageous' Vicky Phelan who 'leaves a lasting legacy behind her'
- 'A woman of extraordinary courage' - Taoiseach leads tributes after death of Vicky Phelan at 48
