Police officer seriously injured after being struck by stolen PSNI vehicle

A police officer has suffered serious injuries after being struck by a stolen police vehicle during a dramatic incident in Downpatrick in the early hours of Sunday morning, prompting the launch of an attempted murder investigation.

The officer was hit after a suspect allegedly drove directly at police during a chaotic confrontation following a foot pursuit through the County Down town.

The incident unfolded at around 4.45am on Sunday, 31 May, when a vehicle failed to stop for police in the Fountain Street area before later being located in Ballymote Walk.

According to the PSNI, officers then observed a man running from the vehicle, triggering a pursuit on foot towards the Colmcille Road area.

Officer struck during confrontation

Assistant Chief Constable Melanie Jones said the situation escalated rapidly as officers returned to their police vehicle.

She said:

“As officers returned to their police car, someone was in the driver’s seat – driving erratically and directly towards an officer. The officer discharged one round from his firearm.

“The officer was struck by the vehicle – causing serious injuries. The vehicle was subsequently abandoned a short time later. The suspect made off from the scene.”

Emergency medical treatment was administered at the scene by police colleagues, with assistance also provided by members of the local community before Northern Ireland Ambulance Service crews arrived.

The injured officer was later taken to hospital, where his injuries are understood to be serious but not believed to be life-threatening at this stage.

Man arrested on suspicion of attempted murder

Detectives from the PSNI’s Serious Crime Branch have now launched a full attempted murder investigation into the incident.

A 27-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and remains in police custody.

The police vehicle involved in the incident, along with the officer’s firearm and ammunition, have all been seized and removed for forensic examination as enquiries continue.

Assistant Chief Constable Jones described the incident as a stark reminder of the dangers officers face while carrying out frontline policing duties.

She said:

“Officers put themselves on the front line to help keep people safe – they do not deserve to be assaulted for simply doing their job, and today’s incident is a stark reminder of the dangers they face.

“Our thoughts are with the officer as he receives ongoing medical treatment today for his injuries in hospital. And we will continue to support him and his family.

“This would have been a terrifying experience for the officer and also his colleagues – with the clear potential to cause life-changing or even fatal injuries.

“Actions were taken this morning in defence of life to protect himself and fellow officers.”

Police Ombudsman informed after firearm discharged

As is standard procedure following the discharge of a police firearm, the Police Ombudsman for Northern Ireland has been notified and enquiries are ongoing.

The incident is likely to raise further concern over the risks faced by frontline officers responding to volatile situations, particularly those involving stolen vehicles and suspects attempting to evade police.

Investigators are continuing to examine the sequence of events in Downpatrick and are appealing for witnesses or anyone with footage from the area to come forward.

Police have asked anyone with information, CCTV, dash-cam footage or other video relating to the incident to contact officers on 101 quoting reference number 317 31/05/26.

A report can also be made online via: https://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport

Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 or online at: https://crimestoppers-uk.org

The officer remains in hospital as investigations continue.