Man in court charged with attempted murder of police officer
Downpatrick Man Faces Attempted Murder Charge Over Police Attack
Conor Carey, 36, from the Glassheena Road area of Downpatrick, appeared at Downpatrick Magistrate's Court facing charges of attempted murder of a police officer. He also stands accused of two counts of aggravated vehicle taking resulting in injury, as well as driving without insurance.
The charges stem from an incident in the early hours of Sunday, during which a police officer was struck by a stolen police vehicle in Downpatrick. The officer, who discharged a single round from his firearm during the encounter, sustained serious injuries. A detective inspector from the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) testified before the court, stating that he could link Carey to the allegations.
During the proceedings, a solicitor representing Carey challenged the severity of the officer's injuries as presented by the detective inspector. The defense counsel argued that the harm inflicted was not as "significant" as initially believed. However, the court was informed that while the injuries are not life-threatening, they remain serious. These include a broken wrist, a crushing injury to the leg, head trauma, and various cuts and bruises. The affected officer continues to receive medical care and remains hospitalized.
In cross-examination, the defense solicitor asked the detective inspector if any other individual had previously been arrested for attempted murder in connection with this case. The detective responded, "I don't believe he was arrested for attempted murder, no." Carey’s solicitor emphasized that his client firmly denies any involvement in the incident.
No application for bail was submitted, and Carey was remanded into custody. He is scheduled to return to court on 18 June.
In a separate development, Kieran Turley, 27, from Vianstown Road in Downpatrick, also appeared at Downpatrick Magistrates' Court on Monday in relation to the same event. Turley has been charged with dangerous driving, driving while disqualified, and using a motor vehicle without insurance.
Source: BBC News Generated at: 2026-06-04 10:51:13 UTC
