LAST UPDATE | 4 May 2022

A 28-YEAR-old man has been arrested in connection with an incident in Derry yesterday which saw two police officers being injured after they were hit by a car, with one being carried on the car bonnet for more than 30 metres.

The incident occurred yesterday afternoon, with officers being first alerted to a grey-coloured Audi and the manner it was being driven just before noon.

The Audi subsequently stopped on Skeoge Link Road, where the driver got out and was seen speaking to the driver of another vehicle.

The PSNI said at this point police made an attempt to speak with him, but he got back into the car.

As he drove off, the car struck an officer on his arm while the second officer, who was in front of the vehicle, was forced onto the bonnet and carried for 20 to 30 metres, before coming off and landing on the ground as the vehicle continued on at speed.

This officer sustained hand, elbow and hip injuries. The driver of the Audi headed in the direction of Buncrana Road.

The man, aged 28, was arrested by the PSNI on suspicion of several offences, including attempted murder, assault on police, dangerous driving, driving while disqualified and using a motor vehicle without insurance.

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

“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.”

The Audi was located and seized in the Shantallow area, but police are now appealing for information and want to hear from anyone who witnessed the incident, or who captured dash cam or mobile phone footage of it, to get in touch by calling 101, and quoting reference number 692 of 02/05/22.

Updated by Tadgh McNally