A 16-year-old girl faces serious assault charges after allegedly hitting Limerick mum Scarlett Faulkner with an iron bar in Birdhill, County Tipperary. The teenager appeared in Tipperary District Court via video-link from Oberstown Children Detention Campus on Wednesday, April 1.
Alongside her, a woman in her 40s was also charged with violent disorder, reckless endangerment, and burglary. Both defendants were remanded in custody and will return to Nenagh District Court on April 23, again via video link.
Gruesome Details of Attack Emerge
Detective Garda Coonan revealed chilling facts at the hearing. The attack happened on March 21 after a high-speed chase involving a van and a car. The van, carrying Scarlett and a man, was allegedly rammed into crash barriers by the accused’s vehicle.
Scarlett tried to flee but was caught by the teen. The detective said,
"There were 11 blows to the head area with the weapon while the person was on the ground." Forensic tests confirmed blood found on the iron bar belonged to Scarlett.
“During interviews, the teenager admitted: 'I followed her. I hit her a few times.'
She reportedly laughed when shown a photo of Scarlett on the ground,” added Garda Coonan.
Scarlett’s Critical Condition and Family Appeal
Scarlett, 29, remains in a critical condition at Cork University Hospital after being airlifted from Limerick. Josephine Duffy, partner of Scarlett’s brother, shared a family update:
“They’re keeping her on machines and trying to reduce sedation, but her brain swells when sedation is lowered. They’ll attempt to wake her if the swelling stays down, to check for any movement.”
“It’s been a very stressful time with limited access. Only two siblings can visit at once. The family asks everyone to keep praying for her recovery.”
Next Steps in Court & How to Help
- The teen’s solicitor requested a psychological assessment, granted by Judge Marie Keane, to be completed before the next hearing.
- The woman’s legal team consented to the adjournment, with court reporting restrictions remaining in place.
- Anyone with information is urged to contact Nenagh Garda Station on 067-50450, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800-666-111, or any Garda station.
A prayer gathering was held at Ballynanty shrine last Saturday, with the community rallying behind Scarlett and her family.
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