Northern Ireland

Man held on suspicion of attempted murder after PSNI officers injured in Derry

The man was arrested after two PSNI officers were struck by a car in Derry yesterday
The man was arrested after two PSNI officers were struck by a car in Derry yesterday The man was arrested after two PSNI officers were struck by a car in Derry yesterday

A man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after two PSNI officers were struck by a car in Derry yesterday.

One officer’s arm was hit by the car while another was forced on to its bonnet before falling off – suffering hand, elbow and hip injuries – as the Audi sped away on the Skeoge Link road towards Buncrana Road

In a statement this morning, the PSNI said the 28-year-old man is in custody and being held on suspicion of several offences including attempted murder, assault on police, dangerous driving, driving while disqualified, and using a motor vehicle without insurance.

Police have appealed for witnesses and anyone who captured the incident via dashcam or mobile phone to get in touch by calling 101.

Derry City and Strabane PSNI Superintendent Marty Reid said yesterday: “This was a horrific incident which has left both of our officers really badly shaken.

“They were working to keep people safe and ended up being subjected to a terrifying ordeal.

“This reckless act could have had devastating consequences and we are thankful we are not dealing with more serious injuries – or worse.

“We've been in contact with both officers, one of whom has been able to return to work today, to ensure they receive all the support they need as they recover and deal with what happened to them.

“Our officers work hard every day to keep people safe and protect the communities they serve and incidents such as this are unacceptable and should be condemned by all.”