Women warned of serial flasher in national park

WOMEN have been advised not to walk alone in Killarney National Park after reports that a serial flasher has been exposing himself along scenic routes.

Gardaí in Killarney have confirmed they are treating a number of reports seriously.

Two separate recent reports have been made by women walking in the Demense area of the park, on the edge of the town. There have also been a number of other reports from witnesses.

According to the women, the man, believed to be Irish and in his early 40s, jumped out of the bushes and indecently exposed himself before scampering back into the cover of the bushes.

It is understood he was completely naked on at least one occasion and was seen wearing women’s pinkunderwear around his ankles at other times.

The Demense area is popular with tourists, walkers, joggers and mothers with young children and there have been reports over the years of men indecently exposing themselves in the area.

Sergeant Ray Walsh, Killarney, confirmed an investigation into the most recent reports was ongoing and gardaí were carrying out patrols in the area.

“Nobody has been attacked and we don’t want to create hysteria, but we’re advising women walking in the area to have other people with them, especially at dusk. People should be aware of what has been happening,” he said.

The man has been seen in the area inside the main entrance to the Demense, which includes Deenagh Lodge, Killarney House and a riverside walk.

According to descriptions by witnesses, the man is about 5’10” in height, well built and has dark hair.