13 hours ago
Fundraiser launched for martial arts school 'destroyed' in apparent arson attack
The local community has rallied around a martial arts school in Dublin city centre which was destroyed in apparent arson attack.
The incident happened at the Republic of Jiu Jitsu premises on Townsend Street in Dublin 2 in the early hours of Tuesday morning.
Gardaí, along with other emergency services, were dispatched to the scene after authorities received a report of a firebomb attack on a building in the area. Firefighters from Tara Street fire station quickly brought the blaze under control and made the area safe.
Thankfully, no injuries were reported following the incident, however, the jiu-jitsu academy "was completely destroyed" in the blaze, according to a statement shared by the owners on Instagram.
The team at Republic of Jiu Jitsu thanked Dublin Fire Brigade, "whose quick and professional response ensured the fire was contained and did not spread to the apartments above. Their swift action prevented what could have been a far more serious tragedy."
Locals have now come to together to support the jiu-jitsu academy after the owners launched a GoFundMe page to raise funds to help them "rebuild, recover, and return stronger than ever".
"Late on Monday night, our jiu-jitsu academy — Republic of Jiu Jitsu — was completely destroyed in a shocking act of arson," a message shared on the fundraising page states.
"Thankfully, the fire happened outside of business hours and no one was injured, but the damage to our gym was total. The mats, the gear, the kids' belts and medals, all completely destroyed. Even the walls, changing rooms and showers were completely wrecked.
"We are heartbroken, but not beaten. Our club has always been more than just a place to train. It's a second home for kids after school, a place of confidence and discipline for teens, and a supportive environment for adults of all ages.
"This gym helped people through depression, addiction, bullying, burnout — and built a community of friendship, respect, and resilience.
"That can't be burned down."
The owners added: "We're already back on the mats — training out of a temporary location several times per week, while we make plans to rebuild. But starting from scratch is hard. We've lost tens of thousands of euros worth of mats, equipment, and fittings.
"We're asking for your help to bring our gym back — not just the physical space, but the community hub it was for so many.
"Every donation, share, and message of support is helping us to rebuild, recover, and return stronger than ever. From the bottom of our hearts — thank you."
Those who wish to support the fundraising campaign can visit the GoFundMe page here.
Gardaí have confirmed that no arrests have been made yet in connection with the incident, but that investigations are ongoing.
A Garda spokesperson told the Irish Mirror: "Gardaí attended the scene following report of an incident of criminal damage by fire at a premises on Townsend Street, Dublin 2, that occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, 17 June 2025.
"Fire services extinguished the fire and made the area safe. No injuries were reported at the time. There have been no arrests at this time. Investigations are ongoing."
