Three Arrested in Downpatrick After Officer Struck by Stolen Police Car, Shot Fired
A 36-year-old man faces suspicion of attempted murder and aggravated vehicle taking causing injury, while a 27-year-old woman has been arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving and failing to stop. These arrests follow a chaotic incident in Downpatrick on Sunday, 9th June.
Court Appearance and Ongoing Investigation
Kieran Turley, 27, of Vianstown Road, Downpatrick, appeared before Downpatrick Magistrates Court charged with dangerous driving, driving while disqualified, and using a motor vehicle without insurance. Turley was initially arrested on suspicion of attempted murder but has since been released unconditionally on that count.
The court heard details of a vehicle being driven erratically on Flying Horse Road and Ardglass Road in the early hours of Sunday, with a bottle reportedly thrown at police. Officers later apprehended Turley hiding in a nearby garden, possessing the vehicle's key. Bail was refused, and Turley is due to appear in court again on 25th June.
A police officer confirmed during the hearing that the newly arrested man and woman remain in custody as enquiries into attempted murder continue. The investigation centres on an officer being struck by a stolen police vehicle.
Incident Details and Official Response
The events unfolded over approximately 45 minutes, commencing around 04:45 BST after a vehicle failed to stop for police in the Fountain Street area. After the initial police crew returned to their station, other officers located the vehicle in the Ballymote Walk area. A man fled on foot, pursued by officers.
Assistant Chief Constable Melanie Jones stated that upon returning to their police car, officers found someone in the driver's seat, driving erratically and directly towards an officer. The officer discharged one round from their weapon before being struck by the stolen police car, requiring medical assistance.
The Police Ombudsman's Office has confirmed investigators attended the scene of the shooting, gathering information and video evidence as part of standard procedure. Nikki Davis, Director of Investigations, extended thoughts to the injured officer and their colleague.
UK Prime Minister stated that "violence against police officers is wholly unacceptable and will never be tolerated. This was a horrific incident. Those who wear the uniform do so to protect the public and uphold the law and any attack on them is an attack on the safety of our communities." Policing Board Chair Brendan Mullan described it as an "extremely serious and reckless incident," highlighting the "life-threatening situation" the officer survived and the inherent dangers faced by officers in their service.
