A fundraiser has been launched for a bystander described as a hero after he intervened in a knife attack in Belfast. Maitiu Mág Tighearnán has been identified as one of the courageous passers-by who attempted to stop the violent assault on Monday, June 8.
Community rallies behind 'hero' with pint fundraiser
The local community has celebrated the brave actions of Mág Tighearnán by setting up a campaign to 'buy him a pint'. The GoFundMe page, launched by Niall Donnan, has already raised more than £7,700. It states: "I have set up this GoFundMe so the people of our land can show our support to Matt for his incredible bravery and courage. 100% of donations will be sent to Matt directly. Let's buy him a pint!"
The attack and emergency response
Emergency services were called to the Kinnaird Avenue area in north Belfast on Monday night following reports of a stabbing. Video footage showed several people attempting to intervene and stop the attacker as the victim lay helpless in the street. The victim, a man in his 40s, remains in hospital in critical condition. Police have arrested a Sudanese man in his 30s on suspicion of attempted murder.
Praise for public bravery
Police Service of Northern Ireland Assistant Chief Constable Ryan Henderson acknowledged the bravery of those who intervened, saying it was important to "acknowledge at the very outset the bravery of those members of the public who ran towards danger to intervene and help the injured man." North Belfast MP John Finucane said he believed their heroism may have saved the victim's life. "They showed extraordinary courage and bravery to step in, to put themselves in danger to save, I think possibly, a man's life because of their selfless acts," he told the Press Association. Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn also commended the public, stating they "showed the very best of humanity."
Community response and protests
The attack has caused widespread outrage and been condemned across Northern Ireland. Several protests have been planned for Tuesday evening, June 9, leading to some businesses closing early and sending staff home. The fundraiser continues to grow as donations pour in from supporters eager to show appreciation for Mág Tighearnán's bravery.
