Police officer injured after stolen police car crash

A police officer in Northern Ireland sustained serious injuries after being struck by a stolen police vehicle during an incident in Downpatrick early Sunday morning. A 27-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder.

The incident began shortly before 4:45 a.m. when a vehicle failed to stop for police in the Fountain Street area. Officers later located the vehicle in the Ballymote Walk area of the Model Farm estate. Police observed a man running from the vehicle and a foot pursuit ensued towards Colmcille Road.

According to police, when officers returned to their marked police car, an individual had entered the driver's seat and began driving erratically. The vehicle was then driven directly at an officer. That officer discharged one round from his firearm before being struck by the vehicle. The police vehicle was abandoned a short time later and the suspect fled the scene.

Urgent medical treatment was provided at the scene by fellow officers, who were assisted by members of the local community. The injured officer was transported to a hospital by the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service. Police stated his injuries are serious but are not believed to be...