Muireann Duffy
Violent scenes which broke out at a boxing tournament in Co Roscommon on Friday evening during which a man was seriously injured have been condemned as "abhorrent".
The incident took place on the first day of the 2024 National Boy 4 Championships which was being held at The Hub in Castlerea.
Video footage of the incident circulated on social media showing a group of men, some of whom were wearing balaclavas, involved in the violence, with other spectators and young people running for cover.
Gardaí confirmed emergency services attended the scene of an incident of alleged assault on Friday evening, adding that a man aged in his 40s was seriously injured.
He received medical treatment at the scene and was later conveyed to Galway University Hospital for treatment for serious injuries. No further injuries were reported at the time.
An incident room has been established at Castlerea Garda Station.
Gardaí are appealing to the public for information in relation to this incident.
In particular, gardaí are appealing to anyone who may have seen a White / Silver Audi A4 car travelling in the Castlerea and Ballintubber areas of Co. Roscommon between 8.30pm and 11.30pm on Friday 1st March 2024.
Any road users who were travelling in the area at this time, and who may have camera footage (including dash cam) is asked to make this available.
Anyone with information in relation to this incident is asked to contact Castlerea Garda Station on (094) 962 1630, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda Station.
In a statement, the Irish Athletic Boxing Association (IABA) said it was aware of the incident, adding: "That such an incident could occur at a children’s sporting event is abhorrent, and is roundly condemned by every member of the Irish boxing family."
The association said it, its officials, Castlerea Boxing Club and the event's streaming partners, StreamSport, will assist investigating gardaí "in any way possible".
IABA confirmed the two remaining days of the tournament have been suspended and will be rescheduled.
"Understandably, there will be clubs, boxers, officials and supporters at a loss. But in the interest of their safety, there is no option; risk remains too high even if the competition proceeds behind closed doors," the statement added.
