Early-morning blaze at Dundalk athletics park condemned

At around 3am on Wednesday morning, Gardaí and fire crews responded to a blaze at Muirhevnamor Community Park in Dundalk.

No injuries were reported, but the fire caused significant damage to materials, equipment, and fuel stored on site for the new athletics track, which has been eagerly anticipated by the local community.

Local Fine Gael councillor Robert Nash called on anyone who had information on the incident to come forward, saying:

“This suspected arson attack which occurred around 3am last night, seen [sic] the destruction of thousands of pounds worth of materials and equipment as well as a large quantity of diesel which was being stored on site to service plant and machinery.

“I would ask anyone with information or who may have witnessed any suspicious behaviour in the area prior to the incident, to please contact An Garda Síochána who are currently investigating the incident.

“The people of Dundalk have waited a long time for an athletics track and events such as this, will only further delay the delivery of a first class Athletics facility for our town.

“The new track will service the whole community and I would implore that everyone in the community remains vigilant during its development.”

Independent councillor Maeve Yore expressed her frustration saying:

“This is not on - this is Our Park where our young and old folk get to enjoy the playground, the football pitches, the pickleball courts, walk the walks, do exercise, meet for a chat, use the sports centre, boxing club.

“This is where our present and future athletes will get the opportunity to improve their skills and practice their craft.

She continued: “Parents need to know where their teenagers are and if found to be responsible for any damage to any facilities should be made pay for same damage - taxpayers have had enough of this lack of accountability and lawlessness in our country.”

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In a statement Gardai said: “Gardaí and fire services responded to reports of a fire at a sports facility in Muirhevnamore, Dundalk, shortly after 3am on Wednesday , 14 January 2026.

“Two cabins adjacent to the premises were found on fire and were extinguished.

“No injuries have been reported. Investigations into the incident are ongoing.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Gardaí at Dundalk on 042 9388400 or the Garda Confidential Line at 1800 666 111.