Father Charged with Attempted Murder After Gruesome Attack in Dublin

UPDATE: A father of three has been charged with attempted murder following a horrific attack in Dublin where a man had two fingers severed. Bernard Mongan Sr, aged 42, appeared in Dublin District Court today, where the charges were escalated after the violent incident on May 9, 2023.

The victim, Bernard Lawrence, 29, suffered life-altering injuries during the attack at a residence in Kilcronan View. Authorities report that Lawrence took refuge in a stranger’s home after being chased, only to be assaulted further in a child’s room. His thumb and index finger were cut off, and his left middle finger was left “hanging on by skin only.”

During today’s court appearance, Mongan faced upgraded charges of attempted murder, causing serious harm, and being armed with a hammer during a burglary. Garda Shane O’Brien stated that Mongan “made no reply” when the new charges were presented. The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has authorized the case to proceed to trial in the Central Criminal Court, withdrawing the initial assault charges.

Mongan, dressed in a navy pullover and jeans, did not enter a plea and cannot apply for bail at this stage, as the District Court lacks jurisdiction in attempted murder cases. Judge John Brennan remanded him in custody until August 26 at Cloverhill District Court for further proceedings and the preparation of a book of evidence. Legal aid was granted to Mongan, who is currently on social welfare, following a request from his defense solicitor.

The brutal nature of the attack has shocked the local community, highlighting the severe consequences of violent crime. Following the incident, Lawrence underwent surgery in an attempt to reattach his severed fingers, but the medical intervention was ultimately unsuccessful.

Additionally, a 17-year-old boy and another man in his 20s are also facing related charges, suggesting a wider investigation into the circumstances surrounding the attack.

Next steps: As Mongan awaits his next court appearance, the community remains on edge, grappling with the implications of such a violent act. Authorities are continuing to investigate the incident, and updates will follow as more information becomes available.