A man has been remanded in custody after appearing at Downpatrick Magistrates' Court charged with the attempted murder of a police officer. Conor Carey, 36, of Glassheena Road, Downpatrick, faces additional charges of two counts of aggravated vehicle taking causing injury and driving without insurance.

The incident occurred in the early hours of Sunday on Colmcille Road in Downpatrick. A stolen police car was driven at the officer, who responded by firing one round from his firearm before being struck. The officer is being treated in hospital for a broken wrist, a crush injury to a leg that prevents him from bearing weight, head injuries, and cuts and abrasions. His injuries are serious but not life-threatening.

A PSNI detective inspector told the court he could connect Carey to the charges. Under questioning from Carey's solicitor, the detective acknowledged that the officer's injuries were not as severe as initially thought. The solicitor stated that Carey denies any involvement. No bail application was made, though the defence indicated a future application may be considered. Carey was remanded until 18 June.

The detective also stated, in response to a defence question, that he did not believe another person had been arrested for attempted murder in this case before Carey.

Earlier on Monday, Kieran Turley, 27, of Vianstown Road, Downpatrick, appeared at the same court charged with dangerous driving, driving while disqualified, and using a motor vehicle without insurance, in connection with the same incident. He was remanded in custody to appear later in June.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the incident as horrific.