Investigation underway into 'bizarre' tree cutting in Athy

Athy Gardaí have launched an investigation after a tree was illegally cut down in the People’s Park, Athy, in what is being described as a “bizarre” act.

Initially, the fallen tree was believed to be another casualty of the recent storms, which have brought down hundreds of trees across the county since Friday, but confirmation from Athy Garda Station and a report filed by Kildare County Council have confirmed that this was an intentional act.

The felled tree was a very old, heritage tree that is believed to have been sown by the first Duke of Leinster, along with some other trees in the park.

The incident, which occurred Sunday night, involved the unauthorised felling of a tree, and some residents nearby reported the sound of a chainsaw going off in the early hours of the morning.

Athy councillor Mark Leigh said: “What a bizarre thing to do in an open, public park. It was definitely done with a chainsaw, and by someone with good equipment.

“There’s lots of CCTV footage and the Gardaí are trawling through it."

Authorities are treating the matter with urgency and are appealing to the public for any information that could assist in identifying those responsible.

Anyone with knowledge of the incident is urged to contact Athy Garda Station on 59 8634210.