Gardaí review CCTV as they probe Limerick hurler's alleged pub attack on rival

An investigation is under way into the incident, which happened at a pub in the city in the early hours of Monday morning.

A Tipperary hurler was allegedly assaulted and suffered a black eye.

The Limerick player was subsequently arrested. He was later released without charge and, while gardaí have not yet received a formal complaint, they are continuing their inquiries.

This will include reviewing CCTV footage from the bar, attempting to locate and speak to witnesses, and seeking relevant medical records.

Sources said a formal complaint from the alleged victim may not be necessary to bring a prosecution as this could be done if other sufficient evidence is gathered.

At this stage gardaí are attempting to establish if an offence was committed – including assault causing harm, or simply a public order breach – but have stressed that the investigation is in its early stages.

A file will be prepared on the incident and, depending on the outcome of the inquiry, charges may be brought against the Limerick hurler.

Local gardaí could also decide to prosecute the matter without needing to obtain directions from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).

The alleged assault occurred in a bar in the city at around 12.30am after Limerick and Tipperary played one another the previous afternoon.

Tipperary had unexpectedly led for most of the game, but the reigning All-Ireland champions put in an impressive final 10 minutes to swing the tie.

While socialising later that evening there was an exchange of words between the two players, and tempers flared before the alleged assault.

The Limerick hurler was arrested and detained before being released without charge.

A garda spokesman said gardaí were carrying out investigations into a “public order incident which occurred at a licensed premises on Denmark Street, Co Limerick, in the early hours of Monday, May 9, 2022.

“A man aged in his 20s was arrested at the scene and taken to Henry Street garda station, where he was detained under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act, 1984. He has since been released.”

Following queries from the Sunday World, Limerick GAA released a statement saying: “On Sunday night last a member of the Limerick Senior Hurling squad was involved in a breach of our team protocols.

“The matter has been dealt with by management internally and no further comment will be made on the matter at this time.”

It is understood the Limerick player was informed he will not be considered for selection on the panel in upcoming matches.