Police investigating after footballer shot in arm during match in County Tipperary

Officers believe the player may have been hit by a stray bullet fired by someone hunting nearby
Gardai were called to the scene on Saturday evening
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A football player was shot in the arm while playing a match in County Tipperary, Ireland, on Saturday night.

Gardai believe the bullet that struck the male player may have been fired by someone hunting near the pitch.

The player, who is believed to be 32, was hit in the arm while playing for Rearcross FC, in a home fixture against Ballymackey FC under floodlights shortly after 9pm on Saturday.

He was treated at the scene by emergency responders, and taken by ambulance to University Hospital Limerick for further assessment.

The injury he sustained was not deemed life-threatening, and he was discharged on Sunday morning.

Rear Cross Football Club said it is “totally shocked” by the incident.

“All at Rearcross FC are totally shocked at the turn of events last night when our Junior ‘B’ team were playing a Division 2 League game under lights and a very serious incident occurred,” the club said in a statement on Sunday.

“We are glad to say that our player is well and was discharged from hospital earlier this morning, we wish him a speedy recovery and to let him know that the whole Club is thinking of him and his family at this time.

“We would like to thank all Club members who were here last night, Ballymackey FC, the match referee and the North Tipperary & District League for their help under such unforeseen circumstances.

“Our thanks to the paramedics who attended Rearcross FC Grounds last night and the Gardai who are pursuing their investigations. We have nothing further to say at this time.”

Gardai said the scene was being "preserved for forensic and technical examination".

They appealed for witnesses to come forward, and were particularly keen to hear from anyone who was hunting in the area at the time.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Nenagh Garda Station 067-50450 or the Garda Confidential Line 1800 666 111.

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