Police have arrested a 27-year-old man on suspicion of attempted murder after an officer was hit by a stolen police vehicle in Northern Ireland in the early hours of Sunday
Police have arrested a 27-year-old man on suspicion of attempted murder after an officer was hit by a stolen police vehicle in Northern Ireland.
The incident happened in the Model Farm estate in Downpatrick at about 4.45am on Sunday. The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) said the officer suffered injuries that are serious but not believed to be life-threatening.
Officers initially attempted to stop a vehicle in the Fountain Street area. The vehicle was later found in Ballymote Walk, where officers saw a man running from it and gave chase towards Colmcille Road, Belfast Live reports.
Police said that when officers returned to their vehicle, a person had got into the driver’s seat and began driving erratically. The vehicle was then allegedly driven directly at an officer, who fired a shot before being struck.
The police vehicle was abandoned a short time later and the suspect fled the scene. The 27-year-old man was later arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and remains in custody.
Urgent medical treatment was provided at the scene by police colleagues, who were also supported by members of the local community. The officer was taken to hospital by colleagues from the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service for treatment of his injuries, which police said are believed to be serious, but not life-threatening at this time.
The police vehicle, officer’s weapon and ammunition have all been recovered and removed for forensic examination.
Assistant Chief Constable Melanie Jones said: “As is standard procedure when a police firearm is drawn, the Police Ombudsman for Northern Ireland has been informed – and their enquiries are ongoing.
“Officers put themselves on the front line to help keep people safe – they do not deserve to be assaulted for simply doing their job, and today’s incident is a stark reminder of the dangers they face.
“Our thoughts are with the officer as he receives ongoing medical treatment today for his injuries in hospital. And we will continue to support him and his family.
“This would have been a terrifying experience for the officer and also his colleagues – with the clear potential to cause life-changing or even fatal injuries. Actions were taken this morning in defence of life to protect himself and fellow officers.
“Detectives from our Serious Crime branch have now launched an attempted murder investigation – with their enquiries continuing at pace.”
Anyone who has information or CCTV, dashcam or other footage of the incident, is asked to contact police on 101, quoting reference number 317 31/05/26. A report can also be made online via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport.
Alternatively, information can be passed on anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.
