An investigation is under way into how a soccer player was injured by a stray bullet during a match at football club in Co Tipperary, on Saturday night.
The incident happened shortly after 9pm in Rearcross during the second half of a match between Ballymackey Football Club and Rearcross Football Club.
It is understood that gardaí are treating the incident as an accident, but they are following up on the circumstances which may have lead to the shooting.
They do not believe the 32-year-old player who was shot, or anyone else at the match that night, was deliberately targeted.
The Rearcross FC player was injured when he was hit by a bullet in the elbow. He was treated in hospital and has been discharged and is understood to be well, but in shock.
Gardaí say they are getting good information from the public, which is very beneficial in their investigation.
A forensic examination of the bullet taken from the victim’s arm is also being examined. It is understood the bullet came from a rifle.
Gardaí have repeated their appeal to anyone who may have been out shooting in the surrounding lands last Saturday night to come forward to help them establish all the facts around the incident.
Rearcross FC President Liam Nolan said the full implications of the incident are only now sinking in and everyone at the club is very shocked and upset and called on anyone with information to contact gardaí.
Meanwhile, the National Association of Regional Games Councils, which is the largest voluntary organisation in Ireland involved in game shooting and conservation, said it is shocked by the incident.
PRO Keith Foran said it is highly unusual for anyone to be out shooting deer at 9pm at night.
He said NARGC members observe strict protocols in relation to their gaming and conservation activities.
Mr Foran said they will be offering any assistance they can to gardaí in their inquiries.
