Police Arrest Man In Downpatrick After High Speed Chase

Man Faces Eleven Charges In Newtownards Court Following Police Chase.

Detectives investigating a number of incidents in the greater Downpatrick over the weekend have charged a 30-year old man.

Detective Sergeant Foley said: “At around 5:20am on Tuesday 5th May, it was reported that a male was seen acting suspiciously in the Old Course Road area of Downpatrick.

The male then got into a silver VW Passat and made off towards Killough, when the vehicle was pursued by a specially-trained officer due to the car travelling at speed.

“The vehicle collided with a bridge at the Station Road area, but continued to travel before being stopped at the Ardglass Road. The male was arrested on suspicion of a number of motoring offences, as well as arrested on suspicion to the offences which occurred over the weekend. He is currently assisting enquiries at this stage.

“We would like to thank the public for the information they provided to assist with our investigation. We continue to have a visible policing presence across the greater Downpatrick area keeping the local community safe.”

UPDATE. 22.00 5th May 2020.

A 30-year old man has been subsequently charged with possession of an offensive weapon in a public place; using a motor vehicle without insurance, dangerous driving; driving when unfit through drink or drugs, criminal damage; aggravated vehicle taking causing damage to the vehicle; failing to stop where accident an occurred causing damage; failing to report where accident occurred causing damage; failing to remain where accident occurred causing damage; possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life; and no drivers’ licence.

He is due to appear at Newtownards Magistrates Court on Wednesday 6th May via videolink. As is normal procedure, all charges will be reviewed by the Public Prosecution Service.

The charges are in relation to a number of incidents which took place in the greater Downpatrick over the weekend and the arrest of a man on Tuesday 5th May.