Gardaí launch murder investigation into fatal sword attack in Cobh

Ian Baitson, who died in hospital after an assault last Friday.

Gardaí have begun a murder investigation into the death of a man who was critically injured in a sword attack in Cobh last Friday.

Ian Baitson, 32, a father and chef who lived in the town, died in Cork University Hospital on Tuesday.

He suffered severe slash injuries to one of his legs during the course of a serious assault in the car park of the Euro Spar shop on Cobh’s Newtown Rd at around 8.55pm last Friday.

He was attacked after he approached a man in a car, who swung a long-bladed weapon at him, believed to have been a samurai sword, striking him on one of his legs, and causing devastating injuries.

An autopsy has now been carried out, and preliminary results have been provided to investigating gardaí. 

Although results are not being released for operational reasons, gardaí have now begun a murder investigation.

A spokesperson said: "A senior investigating officer is leading the investigation, and a designated Garda family liaison officer is providing continuous support to the family of the deceased, ensuring they are kept informed of developments."

Gardaí are appealing for any witnesses to the incident to come forward. 

Additionally, individuals who were traveling along the Newtown Rd between 8:45pm and 9:15pm last Friday and possess camera footage, including dash-cam, are asked to provide it to investigating gardaí.