A 27-year-old man has been charged to court and two additional individuals have been arrested following an incident in Downpatrick where a police officer sustained serious injuries after being struck by a stolen police vehicle.

The incident unfolded at approximately 4.45am on Sunday 31 May, when a vehicle failed to stop for police in the Fountain Street area. The vehicle was subsequently located in the Ballymote Walk area, where officers observed a man fleeing on foot, prompting a pursuit towards Colmcille Road.

As officers returned to their patrol car, an individual was found in the driver's seat driving erratically and directly towards an officer. In defence of life and to protect fellow officers, one round was discharged from a police firearm. The officer was struck by the vehicle, causing serious injuries, before the patrol car was abandoned a short distance away and the suspect fled the scene.

Urgent medical treatment was administered at the scene by fellow officers and members of the local community. The injured officer was subsequently transported to hospital by the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service. His injuries are understood to be serious but thankfully not life-threatening. The police vehicle, weapon, and ammunition have all been recovered for forensic examination. As is standard procedure when a police firearm is discharged, the Police Ombudsman for Northern Ireland was notified and enquiries are ongoing.

Following the initial response, a 27-year-old man was arrested. He has since been charged with dangerous driving, driving while disqualified, and using a motor vehicle without insurance. He is scheduled to appear before Downpatrick Magistrates' Court today, Monday 1 June. The 27-year-old was bailed to allow for further enquiries regarding driving whilst unfit and aggravated vehicle taking causing injury. He was released unconditionally in respect of attempted murder and a number of other driving-related offences. As standard procedure, all charges will be reviewed by the Public Prosecution Service.

In the latest development, detectives from the Serious Crime branch have arrested a 36-year-old man on suspicion of attempted murder and aggravated vehicle taking causing injury. Additionally, a 27-year-old woman has been arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving and failing to stop for police. Both individuals remain in custody as enquiries continue.

Speaking on the incident, Assistant Chief Constable Melanie Jones said: "Officers put themselves on the front line to help keep people safe – they do not deserve to be assaulted for simply doing their job, and today's incident is a stark reminder of the dangers they face.

"Our thoughts are with the officer as he receives ongoing medical treatment today for his injuries in hospital. And we will continue to support him and his family.

"This would have been a terrifying experience for the officer and also his colleagues – with the clear potential to cause life-changing or even fatal injuries.

"Actions were taken this morning in defence of life to protect himself and fellow officers."

Detectives are maintaining their appeal for information and urge anyone with CCTV, dash-cam, or other relevant footage to contact police on 101, quoting reference number 317 31/05/26.

An online report can be submitted via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport. Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.