In a gripping sequence of events in Ballinacurra Limerick on Tuesday, Mr Moran, a young solicitor, emerged as a beacon of bravery when three young girls faced an attack near the Catholic Literary Institute.
The incident began innocently enough as the girls strolled along the stream’s bank, only to find themselves in a perilous situation when a man launched an assault on them. Their distressed cries for help resonated through the air, reaching the ears of three or four athletic young men from the institute, who promptly raced to their aid.
Constable O’Sullivan, upon being alerted to the commotion, swiftly made his way to the scene. The assailant attempted to flee, but Mr Moran, demonstrating exceptional courage, intercepted the man on the stream’s bank. A confrontation ensued, marking a pivotal moment in the unfolding drama.
Despite the assailant’s desperate attempts to evade capture, Mr Moran, aided by a courageous young man named Winter, succeeded in subduing and detaining the attacker after a challenging struggle. However, the situation took a dangerous turn when the assailant, later identified as one Walsh, brandished a weapon and attempted to stab Mr Moran. The narrow miss of Mr Moran’s eye underscored the severity of the encounter and the risks involved.
The immediate aftermath of the incident revealed another victim, a 15-year-old girl named Eileen Balfe, visibly distressed and shaken. Prompt attention was given to her, and medical assistance was sought to address her condition.
Walsh, the captured assailant, now finds himself in custody after being remanded. The incident has become the focal point of discussions in Limerick, with many commending Mr Moran for his courageous response in the face of imminent danger.
The community’s admiration for Mr Moran’s bravery resonates in conversations across Limerick, underscoring the significance of individual acts in ensuring public safety. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and collective action in safeguarding the well-being of community members.
As the details of this gripping episode continue to unfold, it remains a testament to the resilience and unity within the community of Ballinacurra Limerick. The praise for Mr Moran echoes the sentiments of a community that values and acknowledges acts of bravery that contribute to the safety and security of its members.
Irish Independent – Thursday 24 April 1913
