A Dublin couple in their 40s were left shaken after a violent car hijacking on South Great George’s Street turned into a harrowing ordeal.
The pair were reportedly assaulted, stabbed, and threatened with death during the terrifying encounter, according to court proceedings.
Suspect Charged With Robbery and Assault
Anthony Cooney, 37, who has no fixed address but has recently stayed in hostel accommodation on Lord Edward Street, Dublin 2, has been charged with robbery and two counts of assault causing harm.
The alleged attack took place on Thursday evening, and Cooney appeared before Judge Brendan Toale at Dublin District Court on Saturday, where bail was denied.
Garda Object to Bail Over Seriousness of Case
Garda Shane McConkey from Kevin Street opposed the release of Cooney, highlighting the severity of the alleged crimes.
The couple could not attend the bail hearing due to the trauma they experienced, though they have provided statements to authorities.
Disturbing Details of the Hijacking
According to Garda evidence, the couple was inside their 2018 Volvo when a man entered the back seat.
When the woman attempted to exit the car, she was reportedly threatened with the words: “Get back into the car, or I will kill your husband.”
The intruder allegedly forced the husband to drive while demanding cash and threatening the life of his wife.
He reportedly stabbed the man multiple times in the upper left arm with a metal fork and then held the same utensil to the woman’s neck.
At one point, the husband was ordered to “keep driving.”
Eventually, the couple was told to stop, and the suspect demanded the car keys.
After the husband pleaded for his wife to be released, the couple managed to escape and boarded a bus.
The husband then sought medical attention for his injuries.
Chase Ends in Crash
It is claimed that the suspect drove off from the city center and crashed into a Mercedes van at the Kylemore Road – Naas Road junction before fleeing on foot.
The Volvo was subsequently written off. Gardaí later apprehended Cooney, who allegedly matched the suspect’s description and was in possession of the car key.
Court Proceedings and CCTV Evidence
Cooney, dressed in a navy tracksuit and runners, did not respond in court and has yet to enter a plea.
CCTV footage reportedly exists, though the prosecution acknowledged it could be challenged during trial.
Judge Toale remanded Cooney in custody until Thursday for directions from the Director of Public Prosecutions.
Garda McConkey indicated that additional charges, including false imprisonment, may be sought.
Defence Argues for Bail
Kevin McCrave, representing Cooney, requested bail with conditions, arguing that the garda evidence relied heavily on hearsay.
He noted that neither the couple nor the arresting officer testified at the hearing.
Given the seriousness of the case, the likelihood of additional charges, and the presumption of innocence, the judge denied bail but ordered that Cooney receive medical attention while in custody.
Legal aid was granted to the accused.
What Happens Next
The case is expected to be referred to the Circuit Court, which has broader sentencing powers.
Cooney will remain in custody pending trial, as the investigation and prosecution continue.
Share on Facebook «||» Share on Twitter «||» Share on Reddit «||» Share on LinkedIn