Man arrested after police vehicle rammed off road

PSNI police vehicle which was rammed off the road and through a fence

Police have arrested a man in his 40s after a police vehicle was rammed off the road in Belfast on Sunday, 23 November, leaving three officers injured.

The incident began at around 4.45pm, when officers on patrol in the Ballysillan Road area reported spotting a silver Ford Focus driving in a suspicious manner.

Chief Inspector Claire Hamilton said:

“At approximately 4.45pm, officers on patrol in the Ballysillan Road area detected a silver Ford Focus driving in a suspicious manner. The vehicle initially stopped for police, but when officers attempted to speak to the occupant, the vehicle made off in the direction of Hesketh Road.”

A short time later, officers saw the same vehicle in the York Street area of north Belfast. According to police, the Ford Focus then collided with a police car, ramming it off the road and through a fence, before fleeing the scene.

Chief Inspector Hamilton continued:

“The vehicle was later seen in the York Street area of north Belfast, when it collided with a police vehicle, ramming it off the road and through a fence, before the vehicle once again made off.”

The vehicle was later found abandoned in Midland Street. Police enquiries led to the arrest of a man in his 40s on suspicion of several offences including driving when unfit through drink or drugs, dangerous driving, theft of a vehicle, using a motor vehicle without insurance, assault on police, and disorderly behaviour.

He remains in custody assisting officers with their investigation.

“As a result of the collision, three officers involved have been injured and were unable to continue on duty. Thankfully, their injuries are not believed to be serious at this time and they have my full support as they recover,” Chief Inspector Hamilton said.

“The vehicle is also damaged and has been taken off the road.”

She described the incident as “completely reckless”, warning that members of the public could also have been seriously harmed.

Police are appealing for information from anyone who may have witnessed the incident or who may have relevant dashcam footage.

“Our investigation is continuing, and we would appeal to anyone who might have any information which could help us, including dashcam or other footage, to contact us on 101, and quote reference number 969 of 23/11/25,” Chief Inspector Hamilton added.

Reports can also be submitted online via the PSNI’s non-emergency reporting form. Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.