Man, 27, arrested after PSNI officer hit by stolen police vehicle | UK news

Police launched an attempted murder investigation after a police officer was hit by a stolen police vehicle in Northern Ireland.

The officer who fired his gun during the incident at 4.45am on Sunday had previously been chasing a suspect on foot after another vehicle failed to stop for police in the area of ​​Fountain Street in Downpatrick, County Down.

When the officers returned to their car, a man was in the driver’s seat and was driving directly toward the officer.

The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) said the officer “fired one shot from his firearm” but was struck by the police vehicle. It was stated that the police officer was taken to hospital by the Northern Ireland ambulance service for treatment of his injuries, which are believed to be serious but not life-threatening.

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

Assistant chief constable Melanie Jones said in a statement on the force’s website: “Immediate medical treatment was provided at the scene by police colleagues, with the support of the local community.”

The PSNI said the stolen police car, the officer’s gun and ammunition were taken for forensic examination.

Jones said that when police drew their firearms, the Northern Ireland police ombudsman was notified, which is standard procedure, and their investigation was ongoing.

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

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

“This would have been a terrifying experience for the officer and his colleagues and had clear potential to cause life-changing, even fatal injuries. This morning action was taken in defense of life to protect him and other officers.

“Detectives from our serious crime branch have launched an attempted murder investigation, and their investigation continues apace.”

Police have appealed for anyone with information or CCTV, dashcam or other footage of the incident to contact them.