A teenage girl was assaulted on Monday afternoon.

Gardaí are seeking a specific individual following an incident of assault that took place in Kilkenny on Monday, 31 January. Shortly after midday, a teenage girl was approached in Johnstown by an unknown male and assaulted before the man left the scene. The victim, who is reportedly 17 years old, was taken to St Luke's General Hospital in Kilkenny where she has been treated for shock and for a physical injury. It is understood that her injury is not thought to be life threatening. Investigating Gardaí have conducted an initial interview with the victim. It has been reported locally that she was out exercising when the assault took place. The suspect involved in the attack has been described by Gardaí as a white male, aged in his 40s, with an Irish accent. At the time of writing on Monday evening, Gardaí are carrying out enquiries and recovering CCTV footage from the vicinity. An appeal for witnesses has been issued. Gardaí are looking to speak with anyone travelling on the R369 between Johnstown and The Gallops – a minor road also known locally as Cullinanes Lane – in Ballyspellan between 11am and 12.15pm on Monday, particularly anyone with video footage. Anyone with information relevant to the investigation is asked to make contact with Gardaí in Kilkenny on 056 777 5000, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda Station.