A Garda in Limerick has been praised for his heroism after he leapt into a canal to save a young girl who had fallen in. Sergeant Daniel Eccles was on his way to work on Tuesday when he saw 5-year-old Livie plunge into the water while cycling along the Royal Canal at Charleville Mall.

Sergeant Eccles didn’t waste a moment; he swiftly dismounted his own bike and jumped into the canal after the child, who at that point had sunk below the waterline. The Garda managed to grab hold of Livie and get her back above the surface.

From there, the Garda brought her over to the side of the canal, where her father helped her get back on dry land. Young Livie was out for a cycle with her parents and brother when the scary incident occurred.

Gardaí confirmed all involved were safe and well following the rescue, and later in the week, the family returned to the canal to meet with Sergeant Eccles and thank him for his efforts. The family took a few snaps with the heroic Garda, with a big smile plastered across Livie’s face.

The family returned to the canal to meet Sgt Eccles and thank him for his efforts(Image: AGS)

A Garda spokesperson said: “On Tuesday, 28th April 2026, at approximately 6:30 pm, Sergeant Daniel Eccles (Pearse Street) was cycling to work along the Royal Canal at Charleville Mall, when he saw a young girl, Livie (5 years), cycle her bike into the canal.

“Livie was with her brother and parents, who were a short distance away. Sergeant Eccles dumped his bike and jumped into the Royal Canal to save Livie, who was under the water.

“Sergeant Eccles brought Livie to the surface and to the side of the canal, where she was taken out of the water by her Dad. Everyone is well after the incident. Gardaí are committed to keeping people safe”

The images were shared by Gardaí on social media, drawing high praise from commenters who commended Garda Eccles for his actions.

Livie’s grandmother, Debbie, wrote: “Thank you so much, our hero, for saving my grandchild, Garda Daniel Eccles. This could have been a different outcome, only for you are our superhero, thank you from the bottom of my heart.”

Another person added: “Well done, Garda Eccles, for going above and beyond. Great news that all are safe and sound, especially Livie.”