THE heartbroken sister of the young woman who was killed in a horror dog attack in Co Limerick last night has admitted: "It feels like a bad dream."
Nicole Morey, aged just 23-years-old, sadly lost her life after sustaining horrific injuries in the incident, which took place at a home in Fedamore near Ballyneety shortly before midnight.
Gardai and emergency services rushed to the scene where the incident took place and discovered tragic Nicole inside a gated entrance at the premises.
She was treated at the scene but later pronounced dead and taken to Mid Western Regional Hospital where a post-mortem examination is expected to be carried out.
Gardaí from the Regional Armed Support Unit attended the scene and during the course of making the scene safe, encountered a "number of aggressive dogs" on the property.
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The Regional ASU shot the dog believed to be involved in the incident dead and three other dogs were restrained by Gardai before being seized by the Dog Warden.
The local community has been left reeling by the horrific news, with tributes pouring in for beloved Nicole from devastated family and friends.
Revealing that today is Nicole's birthday, sister Jolene said she is "heartbroken".
Taking to Facebook, she said: "My heart is shattered once again. On your birthday.
"I only hung up on you two seconds before I really tried my best to help. I’m so sorry Nicole I love you so much. It feels like a bit bad dream."
Cousin Dennis Brophy admitted that he is "still in shock" over what happened.
He added: "You don’t deserve what them dogs did. Hope u with nana now Nicole rest easy cuz."
Another cousin, De De Hannon, hailed Nicole as "the kindest woman in this world".
She said: "You got taken away too early from everyone soundest cousin I ever had R.I.P."
Another pal added: "So so sad Rest In Peace Nicole Morey. Thinking of all the family at this hard time. The most harmless girl."
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One mourner remembered Nicole as "the most lovely girl to talk to" whilst another added: "Oh I’m so shocked thinking of all Nicole’s family a heart of gold she had god bless."
Gardai confirmed this morning that they have launched a probe into the incident. The scene is being held for a technical examination
In a statement this morning, a Garda spokesperson said: "An investigation is ongoing.
"Anyone with information on this incident is asked to contact Roxboro Road Garda Station on (061) 214 340, the Garda Confidential line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda station. No further information is available at this time."
'DEEPLY SHOCKING'
Minister for Rural and Community Development Heather Humphreys TD said she is "absolutely appalled by the news".
Humphreys, who is in charge of dog regulations, said: "I want to begin by expressing my deepest sympathies to her family in what is a deeply shocking incident.
"A Garda investigation is underway and it’s important we establish the facts on what happened.
"I have consistently said that more action is required in relation to dog control.
"That’s why I have set up a cross Governmental stakeholder group, chaired by the retired Deputy Garda Commissioner John Twomey, to examine this whole area. That Group’s work is underway.
"I have asked the Group to examine the restricted breeds list, in line with actions being taken in the UK and Northern Ireland."
She added: "I am committed to working with colleagues across Government in taking whatever action is necessary to strengthen our dog control laws.”
