DOWNPATRICK — A 27-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after striking a Police Service of Northern Ireland officer with a stolen police vehicle in Downpatrick, County Down, at 4:45 a.m. on Sunday. The incident occurred in the Fountain Street area during a police pursuit.
The officer had been chasing a suspect on foot after another vehicle failed to stop for police. When officers returned to their police vehicle, a man was in the driver’s seat and drove directly toward the officer. The officer discharged one round from his firearm but was struck by the police vehicle.
The officer was taken to hospital by the Northern Ireland ambulance service for treatment of injuries believed to be serious but not life-threatening. Urgent medical treatment was provided at the scene by police colleagues, who were also supported by members of the local community.
Assistant Chief Constable Melanie Jones said detectives from the serious crime branch have launched an attempted murder investigation, and their inquiries are continuing at pace. She confirmed that the police ombudsman for Northern Ireland was informed of the incident, as is standard procedure when a police firearm is drawn. The stolen police car, the officer’s weapon, and ammunition were taken away for forensic examination.
“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,” Jones said. “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. Officers put themselves on the frontline 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.”
The Police Service of Northern Ireland has appealed to anyone with information or who has CCTV, dashcam, or other footage of the incident to contact them.