LAST UPDATE | 9 May

A MAN WHO intervened to stop a six-person street fight in Derry was assaulted and had his vehicle attacked and damaged.

The incident occurred at around 8pm on Sackville Street yesterday, when there was a report made to the PSNI about a fight involving up to six people.

As the fight was ongoing, a member of the public intervened in an attempt to stop the fight.

He had his children in his vehicle, and was assaulted by persons present.

His vehicle was also attacked and sustained damage, and the man eventually managed to drive away.

When police attended the scene, a police officer was assaulted and punched in the face.

PSNI officers arrested a 25-year-old woman and a 31-year-old man at the scene, and later arrested a 28-year-old man in relation to the incident.

The woman remains in custody after being arrested on suspicion of common assault, disorderly behaviour and criminal damage.

The man also remains in custody after being arrested on suspicion of making threats to kill, assaulting police, and resisting police.

The third person to be arrested later is a 28-year-old man.

He was arrested on suspicion of common assault and disorderly behaviour and remains in at custody at this time and is said to be assisting police with enquiries. 

PSNI Superintendent Willy Calderwood described it as a “despicable incident”.

“A brave member of the public stopped to diffuse the situation but, in turn, he was viciously assaulted,” said Calderwood.

“What’s even more distressing is that the victim had his children with him. It must have been terrifying and, understandably, this has been extremely distressing.

“This man stopped to help, and his actions are reflective of the overwhelming goodwill that exists in this city.”

Calderwood added that the PSNI is working closely with partners on the “disgraceful” incident and that enquiries continue to identify all those involved.

Anyone with information, or who witnessed the incident or has footage of it, is asked to contact police.

A report can also be made online or information can be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online.