By Ruairi Scott Byrne

Copyright irishmirror

Two police officers were hospitalised in Co Tyrone at the weekend after a suspected drunk driver rammed their vehicle before allegedly assaulting them.

The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) received a report at approximately 12.45pm on Saturday afternoon of a collision in the Newbuildings area of Derry.

“One of the vehicles involved, a blue Ford van, was driven by a man, believed to have been under the influence of alcohol, who made off from the scene,” PSNI Chief Inspector Michael Gahan said in a statement.

A short time later the offending vehicle came to the attention of police outside Ballymagorry near Strabane in Tyrone. Officers attempted to stop the van, however, it continued to drive on at the police vehicle, colliding with it head-on.

Chief Inspector Gahan continued: “The driver, a 26-year-old man, got out of the vehicle and assaulted both officers at the scene.”

The motorist was restrained and subsequently arrested on suspicion of a number of driving-related offences, as well as assault on police and resisting police.

The 26-year-old man has since been charged with a number of offences including assault on police, resisting police, attempting to cause grievous bodily harm with intent to resist apprehension, possession of an offensive weapon with intent to commit an indictable offence, driving with excess alcohol in his breath, attempting to cause grievous bodily injury by dangerous driving, dangerous driving, driving when unfit through drink or drugs and using a motor vehicle without insurance.

He is due to appear before Derry Magistrates’ Court on Monday morning. As is usual procedure, all charges are reviewed by the Public Prosecution Service.

Both officers required medical treatment at the scene and attended hospital for their injuries. Their patrol car was also significantly damaged

Chief Inspector Gahan added: “Our officers put themselves on the front line to help keep people safe – they do not deserve to be assaulted for doing their jobs and in this case, attempting to stop a dangerous driver on our roads.

“I would also like to commend two members of the public who stopped and assisted the officers at the scene as they faced challenging circumstances.

“Their actions were brave and admirable for intervening to help – a reflection of true community spirit.

“Both officers are being supported and receiving the appropriate care and welfare measures from within the Police Service as our enquiries continue.

“Anyone who witnessed what happened or has relevant information that could help with our enquiries is asked to contact police on 101, quoting reference number 684 20/09/25.”The PSNI said they are also be keen to hear from anyone who may have dash-cam, CCTV or other footage of the area.

You can also report online at www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/ or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org

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