Doctor thought girl stabbed at Parnell Square was dead
Dr. Mike Boyle, head of the neo-natal department at Rotunda Hospital, testified that a young girl’s heart had stopped beating following the November 23, 2023, stabbings at Parnell Square. According to court testimony, the child appeared “grey” and lacked a pulse, necessitating emergency blood mobilization and urgent transport to Temple Street children’s hospital to be stabilized.
How was the critically injured child treated?
Dr. Boyle testified that he arrived at the scene around 1.50 p.m. after learning an ambulance had been flagged down at Parnell Square. He found the girl on the ground with chest drains in place while chest compressions were ongoing. Dr. Boyle told the court he believed the child was dead based on her appearance and the absence of a pulse.
To save the child, medical staff mobilized blood from the Rotunda laboratory that could be given to any patient. Dr. Boyle stated they “just ran with things” and went against all standard protocols due to the urgency.
Because the child required immediate stabilization, Dr. Boyle coordinated her transport to Temple Street children’s hospital. Although that facility lacked heart surgeons, he ran to the operating theatre to secure space and asked an anaesthetist to request a heart surgeon from the Mater Hospital.
What medical evidence was presented in court?
The jury viewed several exhibits detailing the injuries. Garda Raymond Lee presented a navy and pink padded jacket belonging to the most seriously injured girl, which paramedics had cut during treatment. Another child’s dark green jacket featured three holes in the hood area and a red stain.
Witness Corinne Allen described the weapon as a “really large knife” that was longer than an average kitchen knife. A rucksack recovered from the scene, belonging to defendant Riad Bouchaker, contained a cover for a 24cm carving knife.
Garda Gerard Dunne testified that he accompanied crèche worker Leanne Flynn to the hospital in an ambulance. He noted she had a visible injury to her right side and was in significant pain.
What was the medical status of Riad Bouchaker?
Sergeant Padraig Cleary provided testimony regarding the health of 52-year-old Riad Bouchaker. A medical team informed Cleary on November 27 that Bouchaker had no major head damage and his brain had not suffered trauma requiring surgical intervention.
On December 7, gardaí were notified that Bouchaker suffered from post-traumatic amnesia. This condition required a 28-day assessment period that concluded on December 20. A psychiatric consultant reported that Bouchaker’s progress was slow.
Following an assessment by a neurological consultant on the morning of December 20, Bouchaker was deemed fit for discharge from the hospital. He was arrested for attempted murder upon his release and taken to Mountjoy Garda Station.
What may happen next in the proceedings?
The trial is scheduled to continue on Monday. Mr. Justice Tony Hunt informed the jury that the remaining evidence will consist of two “chapters,” which may include further details on Bouchaker’s arrest and additional brief medical evidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the initial medical condition of the most seriously injured child?
According to Dr. Mike Boyle, the child was grey, had no pulse, and her heart was not beating.
What medical diagnosis did Riad Bouchaker receive during his hospitalization?
Sergeant Padraig Cleary testified that Bouchaker suffered from post-traumatic amnesia, though he had no major brain trauma or need for surgery.
What physical evidence was used to document the injuries?
The court was shown a navy and pink jacket cut by paramedics, a green jacket with three holes in the hood, and strands of hair from another injured child.
How do emergency medical protocols change during mass-casualty events?