A fundraising campaign has been launched to buy a pint for the hero who intervened during a knife attack in Belfast. The GoFundMe initiative aims to reward Maitiu Mág Tighearnán, who struck the suspect with a hurling stick multiple times during the brutal assault.
Campaign Details
The campaign, created by Niall Donnan, has already raised nearly £600. The description states: "Maitie Mag Toghearnan has revealed himself as the man who confronted the attacker in Belfast last night. Faced with unimaginable violence, he chose courage over fear and grabbed a hurley stick to defend his fellow Irish man." It adds: "100% of donations will be sent to Matt directly. Let's buy him a pint!"
Incident Overview
A man was left in a serious condition following a stabbing on Kinnaird Avenue on Monday, June 9. A Sudanese man in his 30s was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder, according to Belfast Live. The assault has sparked widespread anger and been condemned by politicians and community leaders across Northern Ireland.
Public Response
Several protests have been organized for the evening of Tuesday, June 9, leading many businesses to close early. There have also been calls to recognize the "extraordinary courage" of those who intervened. Video footage shows members of the public, including one wielding a hurling stick, stopping the attacker as the victim lay motionless on the ground.
Political Reactions
North Belfast MP John Finucane praised the interveners, saying they may have saved the victim's life. He told the Press Association: "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." Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn also commended them in the House of Commons, stating they "showed the very best of humanity." He added: "To those individuals, I would like to say this – you showed the very best of humanity and you have the profound gratitude of this entire House."
