Northern Ireland

Arrests after man assaulted and struck by car in Co Antrim

The scene of the attack in Armoy on a 48-year-old man. Picture by Justin Kernoghan
The scene of the attack in Armoy on a 48-year-old man. Picture by Justin Kernoghan The scene of the attack in Armoy on a 48-year-old man. Picture by Justin Kernoghan

FOUR people have been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after a car was deliberately driven at a man in Co Antrim at the weekend.

The 48-year-old victim sustained serious injuries after he was set upon outside a pub on Main Street, Armoy, shortly after 1am on Sunday morning.

A car was then deliberately driven up onto the footpath, striking him.

Police said it is understood a number of bystanders were also assaulted by the four suspects before they fled in the vehicle.

The car was found on the Coolkeeran Road, Road, Ballymoney, around 2.20am.

Police searched the area and the men were found hiding in nearby gardens.

A police spokesman said: "This was a vicious and violent attack and the victim has been left with some serious injuries, including some to his head and face."

DUP MLA for north Antrim Mervyn Storey said: "The people of the village of Armoy totally and absolutely condemn what happened here last night, and our thoughts are with those who were attacked".

Sinn Féin's Oliver McMullan last night said "whoever is responsible needs to be brought before the courts".

Police are appealing for witnesses or anyone who may have captured footage, on dashcam, CCTV or mobile phone, to get in touch by calling 101, quoting reference 115 18/08/19.