Thugs mar festival opening with car fire
By Maurice Garvey
THE opening day of the Chapelizod Festival was marred by thugs who set fire to a car on Main Street in the early hours of the morning, causing adjoining vehicles and properties to suffer extensive damage.
The incident occurred at approximately 1.30am early on Monday morning, not long after the community had celebrated the beginning of the week-long Chapelizod Festival, which commenced on Sunday, July 1.
Sad ending to the opening day
A garda spokesperson said they are investigating five incidents of criminal damage, with two of the cars “badly damaged” and two homes also damaged.
Two male suspects wearing white tee-shirts and black shorts were seen running away from the scene, towards Maiden’s Row and Chapelizod Hill.
The Echo understands one of the affected homes was targeted during a previous criminal damage attack in February.
Local witnesses said the fire was “out of control” by the time gardai and Dublin Fire Brigade attended the scene.
No injuries were reported during the incident.
Local resident group Chapelizod Chap Lips said it was a “sad ending to the opening day of the community festival” after individuals “intentionally set cars on fire”.
Many residents expressed dismay at the “sheer vandalism” citing a “lovely day at the festival for kids and families”.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Ballyfermot Garda Station at 666 7200.
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