Downpatrick Attack Being Treated As Attempted Murder

The PSNI have issued an appeal for information and witnesses after a man was stabbed in the face in Downpatrick in the early hours of Wednesday, 15 May.

The incident began shortly after 1.40am, when a man threw a petrol bomb at a house in the St John's Mews area. The men then reportedly entered the property and attacked a male occupant, stabbing him in the face. The suspect then poured petrol over the man and a female occupant before attempting to set them alight.

According to police, a second female occupant managed to grab a light from the suspects hand, stopping him from igniting the petrol. The suspect then fled the scene on foot.

The man and woman who had been assaulted were taken to hospital by the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service for treatment for their injuries, which are not believed to be life threatening at this time. Detective Sergeant Dougherty said: "Colleagues from the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service also attended the scene as a precaution. A number of residents were evacuated whilst officers made the building safe.

"An investigation to establish the circumstances of this incident, which we are treating as attempted murder, is ongoing.

"We are appealing to any witnesses, or anyone who might have any information which could assist us with our enquiries, to get in touch.

"The number to call is 101, quoting reference number 85 of 15/05/24."

You can also submit a report online using the non-emergency reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org/