Update: Man released from custody following ATU Sligo incident

A man who was arrested for brandishing a large knife and waving it in the direction of passers-by at ATU Sligo has been released from custody.

The man was initially detained at Sligo Garda Station and received medical attention before his release. 

“Gardaí responded to reports of a disturbance in Ballytivnan, Co Sligo, at approximately 2pm Tuesday, February 27,” a garda spokesperson told DonegalLive.

“A male, in his 40s, was arrested by gardaí following the incident.  He received medical attention at a Garda Station and has since been released from custody. No injuries were reported to any persons.  Enquiries are ongoing.

Videos circulated on social media of the incident before gardaí arrived on the scene on Tuesday afternoon.  Gardaí have released a plea to anyone who may possess the footage.

They said: “An Garda Síochána is aware that persons may have recorded images or video of this incident and is requesting that anyone who may have done so, not publically share that imagery, but to make that imagery available to An Garda Síochána at Sligo Garda Station at  071 9157016.”

ATU Sligo commended the prompt management of the situation.

They said: “Atlantic Technological University experienced a concerning incident on our Sligo campus grounds. A member of the public gained unauthorised access and threatened students.

"Thankfully, due to the swift response of our security team and the prompt intervention of the gardaí, the situation was brought under control without any injuries.

"We want to thank our security team, students, and staff for their quick response to this incident.

"The gardai responded promptly to the situation and we are cooperating fully with the authorities, and urge anyone with relevant video footage to assist the gardaí by sending it directly to 085-8702510 and avoiding sharing it on social media.

"As an institution, we take the safety and well-being of our students and staff very seriously. We are actively working to review and strengthen our security measures to prevent such incidents in the future.”

"For anyone affected by this incident, support is available through our student services. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you need assistance or someone to talk to. You can contact Student Support at 071 9305463 or text ‘Crisis’ for 24/7 support by texting ‘ATU’ to 50808."