Three Irish police officers were assaulted in central Dublin early Saturday after a suspect brandished what authorities believe was a realistic imitation firearm during an attempted arrest on Abbey Street before discarding the weapon into the River Liffey and fleeing.
Abbey Street Patrol and the Foot Chase Through Dublin
The incident began shortly before 5am on Saturday, 31 October 2026, when officers on active patrol along Abbey Street in Dublin city centre observed a male cyclist acting suspiciously.
The chase concluded when the trio apprehended the suspect, but the stop instantly deteriorated into a physical struggle. During the altercation, one of the three officers was assaulted and suffered minor injuries.
Suspect Throws Imitation Firearm into River Liffey
As the confrontation escalated, the adult male suspect produced a firearm and aimed it directly at the three officers, forcing the personnel to seek cover. Breaking free from the grasp of the patrol team, the suspect fled the immediate area while throwing the weapon into the River Liffey.
Police recovered a magazine from the weapon at the scene and sent it for forensic testing. A preliminary examination of the recovered magazine indicated that the device was a realistic imitation firearm rather than a live-action weapon.
Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly Commends Officer Bravery
Following the early morning confrontation, Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly reached out to the three officers involved to check on their welfare. In a public statement addressing the episode, Kelly praised the response of the uniformed and trainee personnel.
I want to commend the bravery of all the garda involved. This incident demonstrates once again the potential dangers that our members face every day they put on their uniform and go out to work. It is also another in a long line of examples of how gardaí regularly go above and beyond in fulfilling our mission of keeping people safe.
Commissioner Justin Kelly, An Garda Síochána
Store Street Station Witness Appeal and Dashcam Requests
Investigators launched an active appeal for public assistance to piece together the suspect’s movements before and after the confrontation. Authorities asked witnesses who were in the areas of Abbey Street, Jervis Street, the Quays, and Temple Bar between 4.45am and 5.15am to come forward.
Police specifically requested camera footage from motorists with dashcam recordings who were traveling through the city centre during that morning window. Anyone possessing relevant information was directed to contact Store Street Garda Station at 01 666 8000, the confidential line at 1800 666 111, or any local Garda station.