Carlow community 'on edge' after masked man armed with knife attempted to break into home

Carlow residents have been left shaken following a disturbing incident in which a masked individual armed with a knife attempted to enter a home in the area.

The incident is understood to have occurred at approximately 5.45pm on Tuesday evening near St Clare’s Church in Graiguecullen.

Raising concerns in the aftermath, Sinn Féin Local Area Representative Aaron Kelly said a masked person reportedly entered a family garden and was preparing to enter a house while a woman was home alone.

He said only the timely arrival and quick reaction of family members prevented what could have been a far more serious outcome, with the family said to be shaken following the incident.

“This is a shocking and deeply unsettling incident that has understandably left a family traumatised and an entire community on edge,” Mr Kelly said.

“Unfortunately, it reflects what many people in Graiguecullen and across the wider area are telling me regularly, that crime and anti-social behaviour are on the rise and people no longer feel safe in their own homes.”

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An Garda Síochána has been notified and is currently seeking CCTV and doorbell camera footage from nearby homes as part of their investigation.

Mr Kelly said community cooperation is vital but warned it cannot replace the need for adequate Garda resources and visible policing.

“People should not have to rely on luck or quick reactions to stay safe,” he said.

He also urged residents to take practical precautions where possible, including ensuring doors and windows are locked at home and in vehicles, particularly in light of what he described as a recent spate of burglaries in the Graiguecullen and Killeshin areas.

Residents were also encouraged to look out for elderly neighbours or those who may be more vulnerable.

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In addition, Mr Kelly raised concerns about public lighting with calls for Laois and Carlow County Councils to work together to identify and address poorly lit areas.

“Dark streets and poorly lit estates create opportunities for criminal behaviour and heighten fear among residents,” he said, adding that he has launched a public street lighting survey to help identify problem areas.

“Everyone has the right to feel safe in their own home and community. I will continue to raise these concerns with the relevant authorities and push for increased Garda visibility, improved lighting, and real action to tackle crime before someone is seriously harmed,” he added.

Residents are being encouraged to report any suspicious activity immediately to An Garda Síochána as investigations continue.