Gardaí identify victim of serious Temple Bar assault

Gardaí believe his attackers hit him with an e-scooter taken from him at around 12.30am on Wednesday on Cope Street in Temple Bar. Picture: Sam Boal/Collins Photo

Gardaí have identified the victim of a serious assault in Temple Bar on Wednesday.

The man remains critically ill in hospital on Saturday, while two men are being questioned about the attack.

While gardaí have not disclosed details about the victim, they said in a statement on Saturday lunchtime that they have now identified him. 

Investigators released an image of the man’s tattoo on Friday in a bid to establish his identity. The distinctive tattoo features the words “ceol is Beatha” on his arm.

The man suffered extensive facial and head injuries, as well as a broken arm. Gardaí believe his attackers hit him with an e-scooter taken from him at around 12.30am on Wednesday on Cope Street in Temple Bar.

Emergency services rushed him to Beaumont Hospital after they found him unconscious.

A statement issued on Saturday afternoon by An Garda Síochána said: “Gardaí have identified the man who was assaulted at Cope Street, Dublin 2, on Wednesday 18th February 2026 at 12:30am.

"Gardaí would like to thank the public and the media for their assistance.

"The man is being treated at Beaumont Hospital where he remains in a critical condition.

"Gardaí arrested two men in connection with this investigation on Friday 20th February 2026.

"The two men, aged in their 20s and 30s, continue to be detained under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act 1984 at Garda Stations in Dublin.” 

It added: “Gardaí continue to appeal for any witnesses to this incident to contact them. Anyone who was in the area of Cope Street between midnight and 1:00am, and who may have any information about the incident is asked to contact investigating Gardaí.

"Gardaí can be contacted at Pearse Street Garda Station on 01 666 9000, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.

"Investigations are ongoing.”