Family of stabbing victim Stephen Ogilvie condemn violence and plead for privacy amid false rumours

The family of Stephen Ogilvie have issued an emotional public statement condemning the violence and disorder that followed the attack on their loved one, while appealing for privacy as he continues his recovery in hospital.

In a strongly worded message, the family said they had been left “completely devastated” by the attack on Kinnaird Avenue and described the incident as a massive shock that has consumed their focus as they remain by his bedside.

They also moved to correct what they described as false information circulating online, confirming that Mr Ogilvie is in a stable condition and urging people to stop spreading speculation.

Family speak out amid online speculation

The statement comes after widespread discussion on social media following the attack, with the family saying misinformation has added to their distress during an already traumatic time.

“We are completely devastated by the horrific attack on our loved one on Kinnaird Avenue. This has been a massive shock to our whole family, and right now, our only priority is being at his bedside and helping him recover,” the family said.

“We have witnessed a lot of false information circulating on social media which is now forcing us to clarify that our loved one is in fact in a stable condition, and we are solely focused on his recovery at this time.”

The family also appealed directly to the media and the wider public to respect their privacy while they support Mr Ogilvie through his recovery.

“We are also appealing to the media and the public to please give us some space. We need privacy to focus on our family right now, without cameras or people speculating about what happened via social media.”

Clear rejection of violence carried out in his name

One of the most significant elements of the family’s statement was an unequivocal rejection of the unrest and disorder that unfolded across Northern Ireland in the aftermath of the attack.

The family said they were disgusted by scenes witnessed in recent days and stressed that those actions did not represent their views or values.

“We have been left feeling disgusted by the scenes that unfolded yesterday across Northern Ireland in the wake of what happened. We want to make it absolutely clear that to do this in response is not supported by our family, and peaceful protest is only ever the way forward.

“We have many migrants who make a deeply valuable contribution to our country, including from within our healthcare system and hospitality sector, and we depend on them to make our country work. We do not want this terrible tragedy to be used to divide people or fuel hostility - do not do this in the name of our loved one as we do not share the same values.”

The comments represent the family’s clearest public intervention since the attack and directly challenge attempts to use the incident as justification for wider hostility or disorder.

Tribute paid to members of the public and emergency services

The family also expressed gratitude to those who intervened during the attack, crediting local people with helping to save Mr Ogilvie’s life.

“We also wish to say a profound thank you to the local people who bravely stepped in during the attack. Your quick actions absolutely saved his life, and we will never forget what you did for him in that moment.

“We also want to thank the emergency services and the doctors and nurses looking after him.”

Their comments highlight the actions of bystanders who responded in the immediate aftermath of the incident, as well as the ongoing efforts of medical staff caring for Mr Ogilvie.

Appeal for information and an end to rumours

The family concluded by urging anyone with information about the attack to speak directly to police rather than engage in speculation online.

“If you know anything at all about the attack, or saw anything strange near Kinnaird Avenue, please go to the police and stop sharing false information on social media, as it is deeply distressing.

“Thank you for respecting our privacy.”

As police investigations continue, the family’s message is clear: their focus remains on Stephen Ogilvie’s recovery, while calling for facts over rumours, privacy over speculation, and peace over division.