URGENT UPDATE: Two men have been arrested and three police officers injured during a series of dangerous ramming incidents in Belfast overnight on November 14, 2023. These reckless actions unfolded in both east and west Belfast, raising serious concerns about public safety.
The initial incident occurred around 11:20 PM in the Falls Road area. Officers spotted a vehicle driving suspiciously, prompting a pursuit after the driver sped away onto Clowney Street. The suspect vehicle violently rammed a police car on St Mary’s Gardens, inflicting substantial damage. A Stinger device was later deployed on Grosvenor Road, resulting in the driver’s arrest on multiple charges, including dangerous driving and driving under the influence. He remains in police custody, while one officer sustained minor injuries, leaving the police vehicle undrivable.
In a separate incident on Beersbridge Road, officers observed a vehicle run a red light before colliding with their patrol car at the Bloomfield Avenue junction. Following a brief chase, the driver was arrested on similar charges, including resisting police and assaulting an officer. Fortunately, the injuries to the three officers involved are not considered serious.
Inspector Stewart condemned the actions of both drivers, stating their behavior was “totally unacceptable.” He emphasized the potential risk to public safety, noting, “Members of the public could also have been injured as a result of these completely reckless incidents.”
Authorities are actively seeking information from the public, particularly any dashcam footage that could assist in the investigation. Anyone with relevant information is urged to contact the Police Service of Northern Ireland at 101.
This alarming series of events serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by reckless driving and the urgent need for community vigilance. Stay tuned for updates as this situation develops.
