A man is being questioned on suspicion of attempted murder after a stolen police car was driven at an officer in Northern Ireland, leaving the officer with serious injuries.
Incident in Downpatrick
The collision occurred in Downpatrick over the weekend. The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) confirmed that the officer sustained serious injuries in the incident.
A 36-year-old man was arrested on Monday, alongside a 27-year-old woman. On Tuesday, the PSNI stated that the man remains in custody on suspicion of attempted murder and aggravated vehicle taking causing injury. The woman, arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving and failing to stop for police, has been released on bail pending further inquiries.
Court Appearance
On Monday, Kieran Turley, 27, from Vianstown Road in Downpatrick, appeared before the town’s magistrates’ court charged with dangerous driving, driving while disqualified, and using a motor vehicle without insurance. He was remanded in custody and is scheduled to appear in court again later in June.
Political Reaction
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer condemned the incident as a “horrific incident” and expressed his thoughts for the injured officer. Chief Constable Jon Boutcher noted that he and Superintendent Lynne Corbett, the District Commander for Newry, Mourne and Down, have received an outpouring of support from the public and across the political spectrum.
