Driver arrested for attempted GBH after ramming police car in Derry
Armed Support Unit uses tactical contact to halt a 23-year-old disqualified driver following a high-speed pursuit from the Foyle Bridge to Rossnagalliagh.
District Support Team Officers conducting proactive patrols of the Waterside area of Derry on Thursday, August 27, observed a vehicle without valid insurance and believed to be driven by a disqualified driver.
Derry City and Strabane District Superintendent McIldowney said: “Shortly after 8.30pm, police signalled for the car to stop within the vicinity of the Foyle Bridge, however the driver made off towards the city centre and was subsequently pursued by trained officers.
“The vehicle was later seen entering the Rossnagalliagh Park area and pursued once again.
“The driver proceeded to ram a police vehicle a number of times, causing significant damage and injuring both of the officers inside.
“Armed Support Unit attended and using tactical contact, apprehended the car.
“A 23-year-old man was subsequently arrested on suspicion of a number of offences including attempted grievous bodily harm with intent, dangerous driving, driving while disqualified, failing to stop for police and possession of a class A controlled drug.
“He remains in custody at this time.
“This is the second ramming of a police vehicle this week – resulting in two men being charged to court.
“On Tuesday 25th August, two officers were injured following a similar incident in the Ballycolin Road in Dunmurry.
“As a result of the behaviour of individuals, four officers have been injured and three police vehicles are now off the road, which could have been used to prevent crime.
“Thankfully, our officers were not seriously injured, however, it is unacceptable that people working to keep their community safe should be targeted in this way. The damaged police vehicles will now have an impact on our ability to carry out our duties on behalf of the local community.
“Police will not tolerate reckless and dangerous driving and will continue to ensure those who pose a danger to the public are taken off our roads.”