Urgent: Knife-Wielding Man Terrorizes Newcastle West for 2 Hours

UPDATE: A man has been remanded in custody after allegedly terrorizing the town of Newcastle West for over two hours while armed with a knife. The incident, which unfolded on August 19, prompted numerous emergency calls to Garda Síochána, with witnesses reporting threats to public safety.

According to Garda Sergeant Dermot Cummins, 34-year-old Dermot Knapp Ryan from Sharwood Estate, Newcastle West, was charged with multiple offenses, including burglary and possession of a weapon. The court heard that at approximately 9:10 PM, Ryan entered Pizza Point on Maiden Street, brandishing a knife and threatening staff while demanding money. He reportedly shouted threats to kill and stab employees, causing panic among patrons.

Witnesses described a scene of chaos as Ryan allegedly damaged property, including smashing a glass pane with a rolling pin taken from behind the counter. After leaving the restaurant, he continued his rampage, threatening motorists on North Quay and attempting to enter a woman’s vehicle while yelling at her to exit.

In light of the threat to public safety, the Armed Support Unit was deployed to assist local officers. Ryan was located after a search of the Sharwood Estate, where he was seen reaching toward his shorts, raising concerns he was still armed. Officers used incapacitant spray to subdue him as he resisted arrest, leading to his apprehension.

Gardaí did not recover a weapon on Ryan’s person or in the immediate area. However, Sergeant Cummins expressed fears that Ryan could pose a continued threat if released on bail, citing his recent return to Newcastle West after residing in the United Kingdom since 2013. “If granted bail, he could flee the jurisdiction,” Cummins stated.

In court, Ryan’s barrister, Joseph McMahon, argued for bail, citing Ryan’s recent visit to his brother’s grave as a significant emotional event. He claimed Ryan intended to undergo treatment for alcohol and drug dependency, emphasizing the serious implications of the upcoming chip insertion procedure.

Ryan reportedly expressed his remorse for the incident, stating, “I am truly sorry for my behavior—it was unacceptable.” However, Judge Fiona Brennan denied the bail application, emphasizing the seriousness of the charges and the need to protect public safety. Ryan has been remanded in custody and is scheduled to appear via video link in Limerick District Court on August 27 and again on September 9 for directions from the Director of Public Prosecutions.

This alarming incident has left the Newcastle West community shaken, raising concerns about safety and the potential for similar violent acts. Residents are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to authorities as the investigation continues.