An investigation is under way after a teenage girl was violently assaulted in Maynooth, Co Kildare.

The 18-year-old, who is studying at Maynooth University, was returning to college after visiting her family for the weekend.

She got off a bus in Maynooth and was making her way to her accommodation when she was attacked at the entrance to Moyglare Abbey Estate.

She was beaten and sustained serious injuries and was taken to Connolly Hospital Blanchardstown.

The scene has been preserved for technical examination. No arrests have been made.

The university said in a statement it was "very disturbed to hear of the serious incident" and had made support available to the victim and her family.

The university added: "The safety and wellbeing of all our students is of the utmost importance to us.

"The university is working closely with the gardaí and offering advice and support services to all students concerned about this incident."

Gardaí are appealing to witnesses or anyone with information on the incident to contact them at Leixlip Garda Station on 01-6667800, the Garda Confidential Line 1800 666111 or any garda station.



