Limerick, Saturday – A distressing incident unfolded as Patrick Tracy, a resident of the area, attempted suicide after being committed to a reformatory. The young boy, aged unspecified, sought to end his life by breaking a glass bottle and using a shard to inflict harm on himself.

The incident transpired when Tracy, under the care of the unmentioned Petty Sessions for an undisclosed period, expressed his anguish by refusing to drink water. Seizing the opportunity, he shattered a nearby glass bottle and proceeded to harm himself, specifically attempting to cut his throat.

The prompt intervention of the police prevented further harm, as Tracy was immediately removed from the scene and transported to Barrington’s Hospital. There, Dr Holmes, the Resident Surgeon, attended to his wounds, deeming them potentially dangerous.

The circumstances of Tracy’s commitment to the reformatory remain undisclosed, leaving the community to grapple with the aftermath of this alarming incident. The incident sheds light on the mental health challenges faced by individuals, particularly those within reformatory systems, prompting reflection on the support and care available to address such concerns.

Local authorities are expected to conduct an inquiry into the circumstances leading to Tracy’s suicide attempt and assess the adequacy of the support system within reformatory institutions. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of mental health awareness and support, especially for vulnerable individuals in institutional care.

Freeman’s Journal – Monday 30 May 1910