Arrest As Vehicle Ploughs Into Parade

A man has been arrested after a vehicle crashed into an Orange Order parade in Portadown on Sunday, striking a police officer and a member of the public.

A silver coloured Seat Alhambra struck the individuals shortly after 1pm on the Drumcree Road on Sunday 04 August.

The vehicle made off from the scene without stopping and was later found abandoned at Churchill Park. Witnesses reported seeing three men making off on foot from the car.

It comes amid reports of the same car being driven dangerously through Portadown earlier in the day.

A 31-year-old man was later arrested on suspicion of aggravated vehicle taking, dangerous driving, driving whilst unfit through drink and drugs, failing to stop and other motoring offences. He is currently assisting police with their enquiries.

Police have said there is no indication of a sectarian motive at this stage.

The officer and member of the public were not seriously injured, but the incident "could have been much worse", according to Inspector Brian Mills.

He added: "We are working to establish the identity of the driver of the car and I would ask anyone who can assist us with our enquiries to contact officers at Lurgan on 101 quoting reference number 1139 04/08/19. Alternatively, information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 which is 100% anonymous and gives people the power to speak up and stop crime."

Alliance Councillor Peter Laverty reiterated the appeal for information.

"I am thankful the police officer and member of the public were not seriously injured," the Lurgan representative said.

"This could have been a much worse incident and those behind it must be condemned. 

"I urge anyone with information on this incident to contact police with it immediately, so the perpetrators can be taken off our streets."



(JG/CM)