Shocking Woman escapes with minor injuries after alleged assault while out walking in Kilkenny

A Garda helicopter has been deployed as part of efforts to track down the suspect

Gardaí at the scene of the alleged assault on a young woman who was out walking near Johnstown in Co Kilkenny. Picture: Dylan Vaughan

Robin Schiller and Paul Hyland

January 31 2022 04:34 PM

Gardaí are currently carrying out searches after a teenage girl was allegedly assaulted while out walking in Kilkenny.

The incident occurred shortly before lunchtime in the Johnstown area in the north of the county.

It's understood that the victim, aged in her late teens, was allegedly assaulted before the suspect fled the scene.

The teenager's physical injuries have been described as minor at this stage.

Gardaí at the scene of the alleged assault on a young woman who was out walking near Johnstown in Co Kilkenny. Picture: Dylan Vaughan

Gardaí are carrying out searches in the area as part of their inquiries and a Garda helicopter has been deployed.

A Garda spokesman said they are responding to a report in the area but could not confirm the exact nature of the alleged incident at this time.

A Garda spokesperson said: “An Garda Síochána are currently responding to a report in Johnstown, Co. Kilkenny, which occurred shortly before lunch time. At this very early stage An Garda Síochána cannot confirm the exact nature of any alleged incident.

"An Garda Síochána will provide clarification as soon as we are able to do so."

More to follow...